In a message dated 7/9/04 10:33:05 AM, [log in to unmask] writes:


> Erik,
> 
> I am writing to support what Maddy said about getting tested for gluten
> sensitivity through Enterolab (www.enterolab.com).  Dr. Fine's stool test
> will detect IgA antibodies to gliadin BEFORE they are detected in the blood
> and often before total villous atrophy has occurred.  THe importance of
> this is
> 
> 1) you can stop the damage to your body before it progresses to celiac
> disease
> 2) even if you do not have the gene for celiac disease, Dr. Fine believes
> that having gluten sensitivity in and of itself can lead to dangerous
> consequences to the body through immune response to continued ingestion of
> gluten
> 3) if you are having symptoms, knowing for certain that they are due to
> gluten would be a relief so that you can go on the diet without worrying it
> is unnecessary
> 4) Dr. Fine also has a test for malabsorption, which (it's my
> understanding) can occur without the villous atrophy.
> 
> So, being negative on blood and biopsy, according to Dr. FIne, does NOT
> mean that you are not having an auto-immune response to eating gluten.
> 
> I have no financial interest in this company.  Just a satisfied customer.
> 
> 
I second this . The stool test is the test I used.

Elainie