HLA-DQ Typing in Medavakkam, Chennai

HLA-DQ typing test is used to diagnose celiac disease which is an autoimmune disorder in which the gluten consumption leads to inflammation in the small intestine. Left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems. Celiac disease is strongly associated with the HLA genetic region.

HLA-DQ Typing Test - Overview

HLA-DQ typing test confirms the presence or absence of autoimmune disorders. It is a genotyping test for symptomatic individuals.

The presence of HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 could be a prediction tool for confirming celiac disease in a person. However, many people with related HLA-DQ molecules do not show disease symptoms.

Patients should undergo some additional tests to identify the symptoms of celiac disease. IgA deficiency test is recommended for this condition because people with celiac disease are likely to have IgA deficiency.

Initial screening can also include some tests related to celiac disease specifically. This can be a second step in confirming the condition based on symptoms and previous tests. Usually, patients must consume a gluten-based diet before the test. This will give accurate results about the disease.

In people with celiac disease, gluten consumption triggers an autoimmune reaction, leading to malabsorption of other nutrients.

The disease also involves damage to the lining of the small intestine. This can further worsen the condition. Hence, it is essential to seek an expert’s advice in this condition after going for the HLA-DQ typing test.

Some histologic tests study the change in the small intestine tissue. This gives a deeper insight into the extent of damage caused by the disease.

Who Should Get Tested?

Celiac disease affects children and adults. In children, its symptoms include poor development, delay in puberty, gastrointestinal symptoms, and anaemia. Chronic symptoms in adults consist of unexplained anaemia, dermatitis, and early osteoporosis. Celiac disease is more common in people with chromosomal disorders such as Turner syndrome and Down syndrome. Immune illnesses like type-1 diabetes, thyroiditis, and liver disease can also increase the risk of celiac disease.

Genetic screening can play an essential role in the testing since many patients have a family history of celiac disease.