CICA: Genetic Only (add-on only)-Cell Science Systems Kit:
Note: This is a test kit that will be mailed to you. It can be performed using a swab or a blood draw. Unless we are told otherwise, the swabs will be sent to you. It is your responsibility to arrange for the blood draw for your kit should you choose the blood draw.
Coupon Codes not valid for this testing.
This test can be added on to any ALCAT Food Panel
Fasting Required: No
Lab: Cell Science Systems
Specimen: Swab (blood by request only)
Results: Average processing time 10-12 business days
Note: Result turnaround times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
Patient Recommendations: Gluten consumption prior to testing would not impact the results. Continue with current eating pattern. No change in gluten consumption is necessary.
Medication and Supplement Instructions for CSS Testing:
- Testing does not need to be delayed because of medication or supplement use.
- Medications that are part of your daily routine should be continued as they are considered part of your normal physiological state.
- If possible, please avoid taking any oral medications, IV infusions, intramuscular (IM) injections, or oral supplements for 4 hours before blood draw.
- If you are taking medications that may impact white blood cell counts, it is recommended to collect an additional blood tube at the time of your draw.
- For short term medications (such as antibiotics) that will be discontinued, it is best to wait at least 2 weeks after completing the medication before completing your blood draw.
- If you are taking methylene blue, it is recommended to wait at least 72 hours after your last dose before proceeding with your blood draw for the Cellular Nutrition Assay.
- Fasting is not necessary
Description: The Celiac, IBS, and Crohn’s Array (CICA) evaluates your genetic risk for celiac disease, serum markers associated with active celiac disease process, and genetic serum markers associated with Crohn’s disease.
The CICA is a comprehensive test array that analyzes genetic predisposition, detects specific antibodies, and measures potentially inflammatory cellular reactions all through one simple blood draw.
Celiac disease risk analysis is determined based on the presence or absence of the HLA-DQ genotypes. Both the DQ8 and DQ2.5 genotypes are tested in this array, with the DQ2.5 genotypes representing a much greater risk of celiac disease. Four specific serum antibodies (DGP IgG/IgA and tTG IgG/IgA) are tested due to their high sensitivity and specificity for active celiac disease. The higher the antibody levels, the more likely untreated celiac disease is present. Genetic markers, mutations in the ATG16L1 and NOD2 genes, associated with the Crohn’s disease are tested along with serologic markers for complete assessment. Anti-Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Antibody (ASCA; IgG/IgA) are immune proteins that are frequently present in people who have Crohn’s disease. The presence of ASCA may also reflect increased intestinal inflammation and permeability, including an association with active Crohn’s disease.
Optionally, it can be combined with the Alcat Test at a discounted rate to evaluate innate immune cell responses to as many as 400 other foods (including gluten, gliadin, casein and whey) and substances for the most comprehensive assessment.
Reported:
- HLA typing for celiac disease: HLA-DQ2.5 and HLA-DQ8
- Genetic Markers for Crohn's: ATG16L1 and NOD2