Fecal Gluten Peptide (Stand-Alone)
Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory
Sample type: Stool
Requires fasting: No
At home test
Details
The Fecal Gluten Peptide assay is a direct measurement of the 33-mer gliadin peptide in stool to determine recent exposure to gluten within the last two to four days. It is a useful tool to ascertain the source of "hidden" gluten exposures and assist adherence to a proper therapeutic diet.
- 33-mer gliadin peptide
Estimated days for results: Results should arrive 7 - 14 business days after the lab receives samples.
Gluten Peptide is commonly present in stool. Gluten-containing grains (such as wheat, rye, barley, and oat) are digested into their gliadin and glutenin subunits. A specific section of the gliadin protein, referred to as the 33-mer peptide, is resistant to digestion in the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract and functions as a significant immune trigger in certain individuals, including those with celiac disease (CD). Even in non-celiac gluten-sensitive (NCGS) individuals, the 33-mer protein can be antigenic, inducing food sensitivities and intestinal permeability (leaky gut). When intestinal permeability is present, this antigenic peptide can drive extra-intestinal symptoms – those presenting outside the GI tract – such as skin manifestations, headaches, behavioral symptoms, and more. This test is a direct quantification of the 33-mer gliadin peptide present in stool samples. Because this peptide is highly resistant to human digestion, it can be accurately detected in a person's stool several days after consumption of gluten.
Currently, the only approach to managing celiac disease is to maintain a strict gluten-free (GF) diet for life. Additionally, as non-celiac gluten-related disorders are emerging more and more in literature and clinical practice, many people choose to be gluten-free to reduce GI inflammation and associated symptoms, and to prevent or heal intestinal permeability. Although conceptually straight forward, there are inherent challenges to following a GF diet as recommended. Estimated compliance rates vary considerably. The importance of monitoring a GF diet is obvious; however, there are currently no clear guidelines for exploring adherence or assessing the outcome. Recent studies suggest that patients cannot rely on dietary best practices or even symptoms to understand if they have been exposed to gluten.
The Fecal Gluten Peptide (Stand-Alone) test is an accurate and noninvasive method that enables a direct, quantitative assessment of gluten consumption. The amount of gluten peptide detected in stool rises in proportion to the amount of gluten consumed. Thus, the test can be useful for monitoring occasional exposures or exposures that may be routine in a persons' lifestyle (even if they are unknown).
- Monitor adherence to gluten-free diet for anyone aiming to follow a GF lifestyle
- Monitor accidental (unintentional) consumption of gluten for both the celiac and non-celiac gluten sensitive patient, even if they are not experiencing symptoms
- Assist in the assessment of refractory celiac (failure to heal despite going GF)
7–14 business days
- Add-on - Zonulin (Gut Permeability)
- Please read the provided test collection instructions.
- No special preparation or timing is required.
- Continue taking all medications unless otherwise directed by your provider.
After Collection
- Stool sample must be received within 10 days of collection.
- If you cannot ship the sample on the day of collection, refrigerate it and ship as soon as possible, preferably within 3 days.
State restrictions:
Patient can't order this test if they are located in Puerto Rico, or New York
