RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS 

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. With time it leads to joint damage that may also affect other parts of the body, such as the lungs, heart, and eyes.

Different tests that can be done to diagnose RA:
  • Antinuclear antibody test (ANA)
  • Extractable Nuclear Antigen (ENA)
  • Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (Anti-CCP)

The above tests help confirm the diagnosis, particularly in the early stages when other symptoms may be mild or absent. A positive result, especially when combined with a positive rheumatoid factor (RF) test, may indicate a more severe form of the disease that could progress quickly. 
Note that some medications, vitamins, and supplements may need to be stopped before the test as per the treating physician's requirements. 


CELIAC DISEASE

Celiac disease blood tests look for specific antibodies, such as those for tissue transglutaminase (tTG) and endomysial antibodies (EMA), which are produced by the immune system in response to gluten.

Screening tests:
  • Anti-transglutaminase IgA/IgG
  • Endomysium IgA/IgG
  • Anti-Gliadin IgA/IgG
  • HLA DQ (molecular)

A positive result indicates a higher likelihood of celiac disease. It is crucial not to have a gluten-free diet at least one month before testing in order to have an accurate diagnosis.


FOOD INTOLERANCE (IG G)

It is an innovative blood test designed to detect food intolerance by measuring food-specific Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies. It is used to identify potential dietary triggers for chronic symptoms such as digestive issues, headaches, fatigue, and skin problems.
It is one of the most comprehensive tests available, screening for approximately 286 different food items across 13 food groups:
  • Milk and Eggs (cow's milk, goat's milk, various cheeses, etc.)
  • Meat (beef, chicken, lamb, pork, etc.)
  • Fish and Seafood (salmon, tuna, shrimp, cod, etc.)
  • Cereals and Seeds (wheat, rice, oats, corn, amaranth, etc.)
  • Nuts (almond, cashew, walnut, pecan, etc.)
  • Legumes (chickpea, lentil, soy, peanut, etc.)
  • Fruits (apple, orange, banana, kiwi, etc.)
  • Vegetables (tomato, spinach, potato, garlic, etc.)
  • Spices (cinnamon, paprika, curry, etc.)
  • Novel Foods (aloe, guarana, chlorella, house cricket, etc.)
  • Coffee and Tea