Celiac Disease Screening
What is Celiac Disease?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the body reacts abnormally to proteins contained in certain grains. When someone with celiac disease eats gluten, an ingredient in many wheat, rye, or barley-based products, their immune system overreacts and starts to attack their own small intestine. This in turn leads to difficulty digesting food and nutrients which can cause any number of symptoms from gastrointestinal distress to anemia. A celiac disease diagnosis is considered to be very reliable when a person has already been showing symptoms and test results are positive.
Celiac Disease Screening
Celiac disease screening is the process of testing an individual to see if they have the autoimmune disorder. This involves a blood test to detect antibodies which are present when someone has been exposed to gluten proteins. It is important to be aware that not everyone who has been exposed to gluten or is having trouble digesting it will have celiac disease.
Types of Celiac Disease Screening:
- Serology Testing: This is the most common type of celiac disease screening. It involves the detections of proteins that the immune system produces in response to gluten. These proteins can provide an indication of whether or not a person has the autoimmune disorder.
- Intestinal Biopsy: A biopsy of the small intestine is taken to look for signs of damage caused by celiac disease. This is the most reliable form of testing but it is not always necessary.
- Genetic Testing: Genetic testing involves looking for variations in certain genes that make a person more likely to develop celiac disease.
Preparation for Celiac Disease Screening:
It is important to talk to your doctor before undergoing celiac disease screening. They can provide guidance and information about what to expect, and discuss the pros and cons of different types of tests. It is also important to eat a balanced diet that includes whole grains and gluten-containing products in order to get the most accurate results.
Celiac Disease Screening Procedure:
The procedure for celiac disease screening will depend on the type of test. The most common form of testing is serology testing, which involves drawing a sample of blood. The blood sample is then tested for the presence of certain antibodies that can indicate celiac disease. Other forms of celiac disease screening may require taking a biopsy of the small intestine or submitting a saliva sample.
Why get tested for celiac disease?
If left untreated, celiac disease can cause a wide range of long-term health complications, including an increased risk for bowel cancer and other autoimmunity-related conditions. Therefore, it is important to get tested if you are exhibiting any of the symptoms of celiac disease or if you have a family history of the disorder. Celiac disease tests can also be used to help diagnose other autoimmune disorders that can be aggravated by gluten consumption.
When should you get tested for celiac disease?
If you are exhibiting any of the symptoms of celiac disease or have a family history of the disorder, it is recommended that you get tested. It is also recommended that you get tested if you have a digestive disorder or are at risk for developing one. Additionally, it is recommended that those with certain autoimmune conditions, such as Type 1 diabetes, thyroid conditions, Down syndrome, or Williams syndrome, get tested.
Risks of Celiac Disease Screening:
Most celiac disease screening tests are non-invasive and have minimal risk. The most common risks associated with testing include mild discomfort associated with the blood draw or minor irritation associated with the biopsy. Additionally, false-positive results can occur in which the test suggests celiac disease, even though it is not present. Therefore, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of celiac disease screening with your healthcare provider before proceeding.
