Identifying root cause - Blood tests

Diagnosis has been confirmed, what's next?

Blood tests

• Full blood count test

A general full blood count test (FBC) can provide valuable insights into the overall state of the immune system. It can help in suspecting viral, bacterial, or allergic inflammation. Additionally, it allows to assess whether a child is in a state of hypoxia, which may be indicated by an increase in the levels of erythrocytes and haemoglobin.

• Total IgE, eosinophilic cationic protein

An increase in these markers may indicate allergic inflammation, although it's important to note that they can also be elevated in cases of infectious or parasitic inflammation.

• Genetic testing for lactose intolerance MCM6

As I mentioned earlier, indigestible lactose (milk sugar) can trigger inflammation in the small intestine. Therefore, I recommend conducting this test if you suspect lactose intolerance. It's worth noting that lactose intolerance is not as uncommon as it might initially appear.

The prevalence of primary lactase deficiency in adults varies widely among different populations. Experts estimate that approximately 68% of the world's population experiences lactose malabsorption. Lactose malabsorption is more common in certain regions than in others. For instance, in the UK, around one in every 10 older children and adults is thought to have lactose intolerance. It's even more common in specific areas of the world, such as South America, Africa, and Asia.

Among different ethnic groups, lactose intolerance rates differ. For example, North Europeans experience lactose intolerance in 22% of cases, African Americans in 65%, Indians in 95%, and Asians in 90-100%. In Europe, rates vary: Swedes at 7%, Austrians at 20%, French at 36%, Spanish at 32%, northern Italians at 50%, and southern Italians at 72%.

Based on my experience, I can attest to the prevalence of lactase deficiency, which is particularly common among children.

Please get in touch and let me know where you are based and I can recommend where to run the above mentioned tests.