Do not perform food intolerance tests except for those scientifically validated.

Mar 14, 2023

Do not perform food intolerance tests except for those scientifically validated.

Type of practice

Other tests

Age

Adult, Geriatric

Topic Area

Gastroenterology

The only validated diagnostic test is lactose breath-test for lactose intolerance. Others test such as VEGA-test, Cytotoxic test, serum specific IgG4 determination, hair analysis, intestinal permeability, salivary IgA, “bioresonance” techniques, fecal microbial analysis and fecal short-chain fatty acids are unvalidated, expensive and can lead patients to inappropriate and potentially harmful diets, with no benefit on their symptoms. The results of such tests may be inconsistent and there is lack of evidence to support their use in clinical practice.

Sources

1. Gargano D, Appanna R, Santonicola A, et al. Food Allergy and Intolerance: A Narrative Review on Nutritional Concerns. Nutrients 2021;13:1638.
2. Zingone F, Bertin L, Maniero D et al. Myths and Facts about Food Intolerance: A Narrative Review. Nutrients 2023;15:4969.
3. Toca MDC, Fernández A, Orsi M, et al. Lactose Intolerance: Myths and Facts. An Update. Arch Argent Pediatr 2022;120:59-66.
4. Van Odijk J, Weisheit A, Arvidsson M et al. The Use of DAO as a Marker for Histamine Intolerance: Measurements and Determinants in a Large Random Population-Based Survey. Nutrients 2023;15:2887.

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Attention. Please note that these items are provided only for information and are not intended as a substitute for consultation with a clinician. Patients with any specific questions about the items on this list or their individual situation should consult their clinician.