New Coeliac tests?

Phadia, a global company that produces and markets blood test systems to support diagnosis and monitoring of autoimmune diseases, has announced the launch of a new two new coeliac tests.

“Our launch this month of EliA Gliadin IgA and EliA Gliadin IgG will offer physicians who suspect a possible case of celiac disease antibody tests with the lowest number of false positive results,” stated Stefan Eschbach, general manager of autoimmunity, Phadia. “This means avoiding putting patients through unnecessary biopsies.”

Osteoporosis risk for Coeliac sufferers?

A link has been discovered between Coeliac disease and the development of osteoporosis, according to researchers from the University of Edinborough .Osteoporosis is already known as a risk amongst coeliac sufferers, but this was thought to be a result of the individual’s failure to absorb vitamin D or calcium.

However, this study suggests that Coeliacs produce antibodies that attack osteoprotegerin, a key protein responsible for maintaining bone health. The result is the destruction of bone tissue and development of osteoporosis. This finding also explains why osteoporosis in those with the digestive disorder may not respond to vitamin D or calcium.
This research ensures that Coeliacs are treated properly to avoid osteoporosis, with biophosphates, drugs that prevent bone loss.

Professor Stuart Ralston from the Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, the lead researcher on the study, was quoted on BBC News as saying that “Testing for these antibodies could make a real and important difference to the lives of people with [celiac] disease by alerting us to the risk of osteoporosis and helping us find the correct treatment for them.” Individuals who have celiac disease may want to consult with their physicians about testing for osteoporosis and addressing proper treatment.