I am on a gluten free diet. How long do I need to be eating gluten for to get a reliable result?
Most doctors say that you should be on a normal, gluten containing diet for 6 weeks before taking a test. This is because the antibody levels detected in blood tests decrease to undetectable levels if you are on a strict gluten free diet. Even if you get a positive result with a coeliac blood test do not go gluten free until you have spoken with your doctor as you may be referred for further blood tests or a biopsy.
Why test for coeliac disease (gluten sensitivity)?
Coeliac disease is a lifelong genetically inherited intestinal disorder, where the inner surface of the small intestine is damaged through eating food containing gluten. Symptoms may include mild weakness, bone pain, aphtous stomatitis (recurrent mouth ulcers) to chronic diarrhoea, abdominal bloating and weight loss. These symptoms can vary in intensity and therefore contribute to an overall deterioration to any individual's wellbeing.
Who is the test for?
Everyone who thinks they may be gluten intolerant or suffers from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Coeliac disease also runs in families so it can be useful to test brothers, sisters, parents and children.
What if my result is positive for tTG IgA antibodies?
Contact your doctor for further tests and diagnosis. In the meantime do not avoid eating foods containing gluten (such as products made from wheat, rye or barley), as lowering gluten intake reduces antibodies and makes diagnosis difficult.
What is an 'invalid' result?
An invalid result is recorded when the control line doesn't appear in the results window. The most likely reason for an invalid result is due to either; - too much or too little blood being added to the test cassette, or - not enough drops of developer solution was added. Always ensure that you use the plastic safety pipette supplied to collect your blood drop and always fill the pipette to the line marked. Please read the instructions completely before starting your test, even if you are a medical professional and have used similar tests in the past, as procedures can vary from one device to another, even from the same manufacturer. If you get an invalid result, don't worry, just contact us for help.
How should the test be disposed of?
After use, all of the test components can be disposed of in normal household waste.