Why undergoing this examination?

Intestinal permeability refers to the property of the membranes in the intestinal tract to allow the passage of different macromolecules, which can be altered either by an increase or a decrease. Increased intestinal permeability is present in numerous intestinal diseases (e.g., Crohn’s disease, celiac disease) and also in systemic diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, type 1 diabetes, IgA nephropathy, multiple sclerosis, chronic dermatological conditions, asthma). On the other hand, decreased intestinal permeability can cause malabsorption and lead to malnutrition, even with a normal diet (in terms of quality or quantity), often resulting from lesions in the intestinal epithelium affecting the transcellular absorption of nutrients. Identifying alterations in intestinal permeability, whether excessive or deficient, allows for targeted therapeutic interventions, leading to a significant improvement in symptoms for a high percentage of patients. 

What is this exam?

The PI Test is a non-invasive method for evaluating the integrity and functionality of the intestinal mucosa, aiding in the diagnosis of the causes of intestinal and systemic symptoms. It also provides information on therapeutic response and clinical monitoring (activity and prognosis marker). The analysis involves the administration of two non-metabolizable substances (lactose and mannitol) of different molecular weights at predetermined concentrations. The result is presented based on the quantification of the percentage elimination of both substances, correlated with the absorption percentage. 

For whom is it indicated?

• Individuals proactively managing their health; 
• Patients with allergies and/or food intolerances; 

• Patients with celiac disease or gluten intolerance; 
• Patients with chronic intestinal diseases or symptoms; 
• Patients with chronic inflammatory or immunological systemic diseases. 

Technology

Liquid Chromatography/Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).