Celiac disease diagnosis
An autoimmune disease characterized by digestive and intestinal absorption disorders related to intolerance to gluten contained in cereals – such a one-sentence definition could describe celiac disease, also known as coeliac disease.
Although not so long ago it was considered a disease of young children, it is increasingly affecting adults, even those 40 and older. Women account for 70% of all cases.
Recent research indicates that the most likely cause of the disease is a defect in the cell membrane of enterocytes. Genetic factors, as well as severe gastrointestinal infections, intense stress, and pregnancy, have also been implicated.
Why is gluten to blame?
Gluten, penetrating the weakened intestinal barrier, triggers a series of immune system responses, including infiltration of the small intestinal mucosa and the development of anti-antibodies in the serum. Gluten, with its toxic effect, leads to the atrophy of the small intestinal villi—tiny projections of the mucosa responsible for nutrient absorption. As a result, food is absorbed in minimal amounts, leading to a variety of clinical symptoms. This is referred to as celiac disease, or celiac disease.
The most commonly observed symptoms include chronic diarrhea, abdominal distension, loss of appetite, vomiting, and emaciation. Secondary symptoms may also appear, such as anemia, rickets, hypovitaminosis, and cow's milk protein intolerance. Untreated celiac disease leads to serious health problems, including osteoporosis, mental disorders, and gastrointestinal cancers.
The silent form of celiac disease is difficult to diagnose. It primarily affects older children and adults. Symptoms rarely associated with celiac disease may occur, such as spinal curvature, anemia, delayed puberty, stomatitis, and herpes.
In Poland, only 3-5% of celiac disease cases are diagnosed. The remaining patients suffer without being aware of their condition. Although celiac disease cannot be cured, it is possible to live a normal life with it if specific guidelines are followed.
Celiac disease diagnosis
Autoantibody testing plays an important role in the diagnosis of autoimmune diseases. Modern laboratory tests can help diagnose or rule out celiac disease. This is achieved through special serological tests that detect autoantibodies produced in the body in response to dietary proteins found in grains. These antibodies cause inflammation and destruction of the intestinal mucosa.
The PolyCheck test quantifies the concentration of two antibodies in the patient's serum, the titers of which increase in autoimmune diseases: deamidated gliadin IgA and transglutaminase IgA (tTG IgA). The test can be performed on children and adults with a history suggesting celiac disease, and on individuals suffering from chronic diarrhea, weight loss, abdominal pain, mood swings, and iron and vitamin deficiencies.
If you experience chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, iron deficiency, weight loss, or suspect celiac disease, it's worth consulting a specialist. A gastroenterologist in Lublinplan further diagnostics and interpret test results.
It can be performed on family members of a person with celiac disease, patients diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, or individuals with anemia, as it is one of the symptoms of this disease.
Thanks to sensitive markers, antibodies can be detected many years before the clinical symptoms of celiac disease appear. Therefore, patients with confirmed antibody positive tests should be tested regularly.
The only treatment for celiac disease is a lifelong, strict gluten-free diet. Consulting with a dietitian will help determine the appropriate diet.
REMEMBER! Every diagnostic test result should be interpreted by a specialist. Only a physician, based primarily on a clinical interview and additional laboratory tests, can make a correct diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions – FAQ
What is celiac disease?
Celiac disease, also known as coeliac disease, is an autoimmune disorder associated with gluten intolerance. It leads to damage to the lining of the small intestine and impaired nutrient absorption.
Does celiac disease only affect children?
No. Celiac disease can affect both children and adults. Symptoms can also appear in people aged 40 and older.
What are the symptoms of celiac disease?
Symptoms of celiac disease may include chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, weight loss, loss of appetite, vomiting, iron and vitamin deficiencies, anemia, and mood swings.
Can celiac disease occur without typical symptoms?
Yes. Celiac disease can be silent, especially in older children and adults. Symptoms can be atypical, such as anemia, delayed puberty, stomatitis, cold sores, or chronic fatigue.
How is celiac disease diagnosed?
Celiac disease diagnosis involves a medical history, symptom assessment, and laboratory testing. Serological tests, which detect autoantibodies associated with the disease, play an important role.
What tests are performed when celiac disease is suspected?
If celiac disease is suspected, antibody testing may be performed, including anti-tissue transglutaminase IgA and anti-deamidated gliadin IgA. Results should be interpreted by a physician in conjunction with the patient's symptoms.
Who should consider testing for celiac disease?
Testing is worth considering in cases of chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, iron and vitamin deficiencies, anemia, autoimmune diseases, and in family members of a person with celiac disease.
How is celiac disease treated?
The cornerstone of celiac disease treatment is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. It's best to discuss this diet with your doctor and dietitian to avoid deficiencies and ensure a properly balanced diet.
The information contained in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is recommended that you consult a physician or other qualified healthcare professional for advice regarding specific symptoms, ailments, or health conditions.