Getting Checked for Celiac Disease: Recommended Exams & Testing

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine. It is triggered by consuming gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. If left undiagnosed and untreated, celiac disease can lead to various complications, such as nutrient deficiencies, osteoporosis, infertility, and an increased risk of certain cancers. Therefore, it is crucial to undergo appropriate exams and testing for timely diagnosis and management of this condition.

The first step in getting checked for celiac disease is to consult with a healthcare professional. A doctor or a gastroenterologist specializing in digestive disorders will be able to guide you through the diagnostic process. They will start by conducting a thorough medical history and physical examination to understand your symptoms and rule out other potential causes.

Once celiac disease is suspected, blood tests are usually recommended. The most common blood test used for diagnosing celiac disease is the serology test that measures the presence of specific antibodies in the blood. These antibodies, including anti-tissue transglutaminase (tTG) and anti-endomysial antibodies (EMA), are elevated in individuals with celiac disease when they consume gluten-containing foods. It is important to maintain a regular gluten-containing diet prior to taking these blood tests, as a gluten-free diet can lead to false negative results.

In some cases, additional blood tests may be performed to gather more information. These tests include measuring the levels of total serum IgA, as celiac disease is more prevalent in individuals with IgA deficiency. Genetic testing may also be considered, as the presence of certain human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes, such as HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8, increases the likelihood of developing celiac disease. However, it is vital to note that positive genetic testing alone does not confirm the diagnosis, as many individuals with these genes do not develop celiac disease.

If blood test results suggest celiac disease, the next step is to confirm the diagnosis through an intestinal biopsy. An endoscopy procedure is performed, in which a flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the mouth into the small intestine. During this procedure, small tissue samples, known as biopsies, are taken from the lining of the small intestine. These samples are then examined under a microscope to look for characteristic damage, such as villous atrophy and inflammation, which are hallmarks of celiac disease.

It is worth noting that individuals should continue consuming gluten-containing foods leading up to the intestinal biopsy, as a gluten-free diet can reduce the extent of damage in the small intestine and lead to false negative results. The biopsy is considered the gold standard for confirming celiac disease and allows healthcare professionals to assess the severity of the condition.

Once a diagnosis of celiac disease is confirmed, a strict lifelong gluten-free diet is the recommended treatment. Removing gluten from the diet allows the intestines to heal and helps alleviate symptoms. It is essential to receive guidance from a registered dietitian who specializes in celiac disease to ensure proper nutrition and prevent accidental gluten exposure.

In conclusion, getting checked for celiac disease involves a step-by-step process that begins with medical history and physical examination, followed by blood tests and, ultimately, an intestinal biopsy for confirmation. It is important to continue consuming gluten-containing foods before undergoing these tests to avoid false negative results. Early diagnosis and adherence to a strict gluten-free diet are vital for managing celiac disease and preventing complications. If you suspect you may have celiac disease, consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate exams and testing.