What is Celiac Disease Testing?
Celiac disease testing is a diagnostic approach used to confirm whether a person has celiac disease, an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten. When individuals with celiac disease consume gluten, their immune system damages the small intestine, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, nutrient deficiencies, and fatigue. Testing identifies disease activity, confirms diagnosis, and helps guide long-term dietary management.
When is Testing Recommended?
Testing is recommended for individuals who experience persistent symptoms or have risk factors. Common reasons for testing include:
- Chronic diarrhea, bloating, or abdominal pain
- Unexplained anemia
- Persistent fatigue or weight loss
- Skin rash consistent with dermatitis herpetiformis
- Family history of celiac disease
- Type 1 diabetes or autoimmune thyroid disease
- Poor growth or delayed puberty in children
Routine testing is not recommended after starting a gluten-free diet, since results can become inaccurate.
How is Testing Performed?
Celiac evaluation typically begins with blood tests to check for specific antibodies, including tissue transglutaminase (tTG-IgA) and deamidated gliadin peptide (DGP). Total IgA levels may also be measured to ensure accurate interpretation. If blood tests suggest celiac disease, an upper endoscopy with small bowel biopsy is often recommended to confirm the diagnosis. Genetic testing for HLA-DQ2 or HLA-DQ8 may be used in uncertain cases or when screening family members.
What to Expect After Testing?
Blood tests do not require recovery time. After endoscopy, patients may experience mild throat irritation, bloating, or sedation-related drowsiness. Most individuals resume normal activities within 24 hours.
What are the Risks of Testing?
Testing is generally safe. Small risks include:
- Very low risk of bleeding or perforation during biopsy
- Sedation-related side effects
- Anxiety or dietary disruption before testing
What are the Benefits of Testing?
Benefits include:
- Accurate diagnosis of celiac disease
- Identifying nutrient deficiencies
- Guiding essential dietary treatment
- Preventing long-term complications such as osteoporosis, infertility, and intestinal cancer