[Comparative study of serological markers for intolerance to gluten]

Ann Biol Clin (Paris). 1996;54(7):303-6.
[Article in French]

Abstract

In France as well as in most of the other European countries, the prevalence of coeliac disease is underestimated. In order to point out a good screening test, we have determined the most sensitive combination (technique-marker) for the diagnosis of the disease among 81 individuals (50 with coeliac disease and 31 controls). Serum anti-gliadin antibodies were measured using three methods: the qualitative dot-blot (Gliastick-Eurospital) and two quantitative methods Elisa (homemade-Saint-Antoine Hospital and alpha-Gliatest-Eurospital); serum anti-endomysium antibodies (EmA) and anti-reticulin antibodies (ARA) were detected using an indirect immunofluorescence assay. We have shown that the simple and fast Gliastick test can fulfil the selected criterion with a sensitivity of 0.90. Nevertheless, uncertain and positives results have to be confirmed by one of the two more specific quantitative tests. The two other markers (ARA and EmA) have shown a better specificity (1) but they were less sensitive (0.54 and 0.56 for ARA and EmA respectively). Thus, they have both to be used as confirmation tests and for follow-up with supervision of the compliance to recommended diet. In conclusion, the Gliastick can be considered as a good screening test for the detection of anti-gliadin antibodies and it would represent the expected help to determine the prevalence of coeliac disease on a large-scale map.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antibodies / analysis
  • Autoantibodies / analysis
  • Biomarkers / analysis*
  • Celiac Disease / diagnosis*
  • Celiac Disease / prevention & control*
  • Child
  • Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
  • Female
  • Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Direct
  • Fluorometry
  • Gliadin / immunology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Reticulin / immunology

Substances

  • Antibodies
  • Autoantibodies
  • Biomarkers
  • Reticulin
  • Gliadin