An update on CD Medics

The CD-MEDICS project started on 1st February 2008 and is set to run for a period of 4 years. It is sponsored under the EU Framework 7 programme to 9.5 Million Euros and has 20 partners from 10 countries currently participating.  The objective of CD-MEDICS is to obtain an instrument that will be a low-cost non-invasive intelligent diagnosis system that can be present at point of care, such as a doctor’s surgery which will bring benefits to patients and healthcare professionals.  The applications of the proposed integrated microsystem and its individual modules for coeliac disease diagnosis, monitoring and management are multiple. The analysis of the HLA-DQ2 & 8 genes will provide information on the genetic predisposition of an individual, while serum IgA and IgG indicate antibodies associated with the presence of the disease and ongoing ingestion of gluten useful for monitoring the diet.

Coeliac UK is one of the partners in the project and leads the training work package.  One of the main tasks is to deliver a healthcare professional training module for use throughout Europe.  This tool will cover the fundamentals of coeliac disease, epidemiology, immunology, case finding, diagnosis, support via local societies, and management.  Several case studies will be woven into the tool to present a patient perspective of the disease.  The training tool will be submitted to professional bodies for CME accreditation.  This tool will be finished by autumn 2010 so watch this space for more information!