Dynamic Code launches innovative self-test for gluten intolerance

Three percent of Sweden’s population suffers from coeliac disease, also known as gluten intolerance. On average, it can take up to five years to receive a diagnosis — this is obviously far too long. Healthtech company Dynamic Code is now launching a new innovative self-testing kit with laboratory analysis to detect gluten intolerance (coeliac disease) in Sweden. This new advanced test can help people get a proper diagnosis in just a few short days.

Coeliac disease is a common condition that, despite being represented in all age groups, is severely under-diagnosed. The symptoms are also quite diffuse and ambiguous, ranging from fatigue to depression. Coeliac disease is the inability to process the protein gluten, which is typically found in wheat, rye and other grains. For those afflicted with gluten intolerance, the small intestine becomes inflamed and cannot properly absorb the necessary nutrients when the individual ingests gluten.

Receiving a confirmed diagnosis, however, can take a very long time. The average patient can go several years between their first doctor’s visit to discuss their symptoms and receiving an actual diagnosis. This has led to many people diagnosing themselves and beginning a gluten-free diet even if it’s not at all necessary.

“Many individuals with gastrointestinal problems are not diagnosed correctly. Symptoms such as stomach pain, bloating, loose stools and fatigue can occur in at least 20% of the population; in most cases, these symptoms are treated without finding their underlying cause. By detecting the presence of gluten intolerance or excluding it altogether, you can take an important step in the right direction towards providing for your own health" - Atrin Sahafi, medical expert at Dynamic Code and specialist in gastrointestinal diseases and internal medicine.

Untreated coeliac disease leads to a reduced quality of life
Gluten-free alternative products are not automatically healthier simply because they lack gluten. Often they contain more starch and less fibre than the original product they are trying to replicate. They may also contain more fat and sugar to give it a better taste. That said, for someone who has been officially diagnosed with coeliac disease, it is absolutely vital to follow a strict gluten-free diet. The ideal regimen includes naturally gluten-free products such as rice, potatoes and root vegetables, along with a limited intake of gluten-free substitutes.

“Untreated or poorly treated coeliac disease leads to a reduced quality of life and is linked to an increased risk of premature death. Not only does it cause great suffering in the individual, it also brings increased societal costs; it is therefore extremely important to detect coeliac disease as early as possible so you can start treatment right away. We are pleased that we can present a faster solution to make this process quick, safe, and secure" - Anne Kihlgren, founder of Dynamic Code.

Three self-tests for gluten intolerance
Dynamic Code is now launching three different self-tests that detect the presence of gluten intolerance. The first one is a DNA test that shows whether you have a genetic predisposition towards developing coeliac disease. The second test shows whether you have a genetic predisposition for coeliac disease and whether the disease is already present. This test requires that you have been eating a normal diet that contains gluten before you take the sample. The third test is for individuals who have already been diagnosed with coeliac disease; the test is designed to help them keep track of the status of their ailment — something that is often unavailable in healthcare today.

FACTS ABOUT DYNAMIC CODE’S DIFFERENT TESTS FOR GLUTEN INTOLERANCE

The target group for Dynamic Code’s various tests for gluten intolerance includes individuals experiencing stomach issues, individuals with family members who have been diagnosed with coeliac disease, individuals who have self-diagnosed but have not yet received an official diagnosis, and parents who want to test their children. One additional target group are individuals who are familiar with coeliac disease; as these individuals have progressed in their investigation about the issue, they now want to determine whether they have the ailment or a predisposition towards it.

Test 1: Predisposition for Gluten Intolerance
This test is for individuals who have not been diagnosed with coeliac disease and/or for individuals who have tried a gluten-free diet but were unable to rule out coeliac disease as a potential cause for certain symptoms. The test is also aimed at individuals who may be curious whether they possess the genetic markers for coeliac disease. This test does not require that you have eaten a diet that contains gluten before taking the sample (i.e. this test can be taken while on a gluten-free diet).

If the test shows that you possess a predisposition for coeliac disease and you exhibit symptoms consistent with the condition, it is recommended that you proceed with Test 2.

You can always choose to consult with a specialist doctor and/or a dietitian, both of whom specialize in gastrointestinal diseases. You can speak with them to discuss the test results even if the results are negative.

Test 2: Test for Predisposition and Intolerance
This test is designed for individuals who are experiencing stomach issues, suspect that they have already developed coeliac disease (i.e. they exhibit symptoms consistent with coeliac disease), or are part of a risk group for developing coeliac disease (i.e. they have other autoimmune diseases or a family member with the condition).

The test should be used if you suspect you are gluten intolerant. It measures both a genetic predisposition for coeliac disease as well as the presence of specific antibodies that would indicate the presence of coeliac disease. These measurements are needed in order to make a proper diagnosis.

Before taking the sample, it is very important to maintain a diet that contains gluten (i.e. 2–3 slices of bread per day for at least three weeks before sampling; this is a requirement for similar tests in traditional healthcare, as well). If the test is positive, you will be referred to a specialist doctor and then a dietitian to discuss your results. A formal diagnosis is always made by a doctor. If your results are negative, you will still be offered further contact with a specialist if you wish to discuss any issues further.

Test 3: Monitoring for Gluten Intolerance
This test is designed for individuals who have already been diagnosed with coeliac disease.

When taking this test to monitor the status of your ailment you should follow your normal dietary regimen (i.e. adhere to a gluten-free diet).

Typical healthcare treatments do not include coeliac disease monitoring but there is tremendous value in this type of test. Low levels of tTG-IgA may indicate that any previously encountered intestinal damage is healing. It can also indicate that a low-grade inflammation has not yet healed even though you have adhered to a strict gluten-free diet.

Regardless of the test results, you can choose to speak with a specialist doctor and/or dietitian, both of whom specialize in gastrointestinal diseases. It is important to have an individualized assessment of your results as similar levels of tTG-IgA may have varied significance depending on the individual.