| Abstract: |
This article explains the use of a DNA test for the gene marker for celiac disease. More than 90 percent of all people with celiac disease carry the gene for HLA DQ2, and most of the remaining 10 percent carry the gene for HLA DQ8. The test results indicate whether a person is susceptible to developing celiac disease; it is not diagnostic of the disease. However, if the result is negative, this test can rule out the presence of celiac disease. The author explores when genetic testing is most appropriate, including when antibody or biopsy results are ambiguous, when the person being tested has already started to follow a gluten-free diet, when a person has a first-degree or second-degree relative who has been diagnosed with celiac disease, and when a person does not respond to the gluten-free diet. One chart lists the companies that offer genetic testing for celiac disease genes; one company will do the test for individuals, whereas the others require a physician’s order. The article concludes with a brief glossary of terms. |