Gene Test Negative

[lonewolf]

I just got a phone call from my doctor saying that the gene test from Kimball Genetics came back showing negative for both celiac genes. I guess this is good in terms of not having to worry about passing anything on to my kids. But I'm stumped. I really thought that celiac was the answer. Especially after reading so many stories about people having lots of cavities as children, being diagnosed with IBS, having thyroid problems, etc. - all things I have struggled with too. I know this isn't "all in my head" because the dietary challenge has proved to me that I need to avoid gluten, but I guess I just wanted something to call it. My naturopath must have been right years ago when she said that I had wrecked my digestive tract by overusing antibiotics.

Thanks for letting me blow off some steam.

Liz

[tarnalberry]

I just got a phone call from my doctor saying that the gene test from Kimball Genetics came back showing negative for both celiac genes. I guess this is good in terms of not having to worry about passing anything on to my kids.

Don't forget that these are only two of the many genes that are implicated in celiac disease. These are only the two that are known about. 1-2% of biopsy proven celiacs have neither gene, and then there's the whole spectrum of "gluten intolerance" that doesn't show up positively (easily) on biopsies.

[Guest nini]

the gene test is not infallible... there are other genes for celiac that have not been identified yet... you may be one of those that has a different gene... In my opinion it's probably better (for you anyway) to just call it gluten intolerance and stick with that... It's a more accurate description of the condition than Celiac... what's Celiac anyway? Just kidding... There is still so much that is not known about Celiac and what causes it and wether or not someone has villi damage is supposed to be the defining line, but I don't buy it...

Remember there are BIOPSY PROVEN Celiacs that do not have the recognized genetic factors either, Eventually the genomes will be more accurately mapped and the experts will realize that there are more genetic markers for Celiac than they currently recognize. Just you watch!

[Claire]

I know just how you feel. If I had to have anything I really wanted it to be celiac. It sounded a whole lot better than the other possibilities I was being threatened with!!!!!!!

I too was tested by Kimball. Unfortunately they do not do the 'gluten senstivity gene' test.

That is the next thing I have to do. You too, perhaps. Claire

[Nantzie]

I did my genetic testing through Enterolab, and found out I have DQ1, which is not tested for by Kimball. It's not considered a celiac gene, but I have found that I just feel better mentally, physically and intellectually off of gluten. So I'm going gluten-free. My symptoms on gluten are headaches, body pain, nausea and stomach cramps, difficulty concentrating, irritable, anger, anxiety, insomnia. So not having the main genes doesn't exclude gluten as being a cause of problems. Just listen to your body. It's a healthy way to eat anyway.