Recognition of Celiac Disease: Importance of Timely Diagnosis and the Role of Lab Tests
Recognition of Celiac Disease: Importance of Timely Diagnosis and the Role of Lab Tests
On May 16, we annually celebrate International Celiac Disease Day, a time when extra attention is drawn to celiac disease and related gluten-related disorders. Celiac disease, often confused with other gastrointestinal conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (PDS) or Crohn's disease, is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system reacts to gluten. This leads to damage to the lining of the small intestine, which can cause various health problems.
Difference between Celiac Disease, Gluten Allergy and Other Gastrointestinal Disorders
- Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease in which the intake of gluten leads to damage to the small intestine.
- Gluten allergy, often a misleading term, can refer to wheat allergy, in which the immune system reacts to proteins found in wheat, not specifically gluten.
- Irritable bowel syndrome (PDS) and Crohn's disease are other disorders of the digestive system but are not caused by an immune reaction to gluten.
- Celiac Disease: An Autoimmune Disease with Serious Consequences
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease in which the ingestion of gluten (a protein found in wheat, barley and rye) triggers an immune response that damages the villi of the small intestine. These villi are crucial for the absorption of nutrients. When these are damaged, the body cannot absorb necessary nutrients, leading to malnutrition, weight loss, severe fatigue, and other related health problems. Without treatment, celiac disease can lead to complications such as osteoporosis, infertility, neurological disorders, and in rare cases, cancer. - Gluten allergy: A Confusing Term
The term "gluten allergy" is often misused. What some call a gluten allergy may actually refer to wheat allergy - a true allergic reaction to the proteins in wheat, including but not limited to gluten. Symptoms of a wheat allergy are often more immediate and may include skin rashes, itching, swelling and in severe cases, anaphylaxis. This allergic reaction is different from the autoimmune reaction seen in celiac disease.
Importance of Testing
Proper diagnosis of celiac disease begins with an accurate and timely blood test that detects antibodies typical of celiac disease. Blood Value Testing offers specific tests that can help with this:
- Celiac Gluten Allergy IgA and IgG Transglutamine Test: This test measures the presence of IgA and IgG antibodies to transglutaminase, an indicator of celiac disease. This test is recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms of celiac disease such as diarrhea, abdominal pain and unexplained weight loss.
- 31 Food Test - What Can I Eat: This comprehensive test helps determine which foods a person may have a severe reaction to, including gluten. This is useful for individuals with non-specific gastrointestinal symptoms to rule out other food sensitivities.
- Gliadin Antibody Test: Gliadin, a component of gluten, can also cause an immune reaction. This test is relevant when celiac disease is suspected but other tests do not give a clear picture. This one less specific for Coeliaki but, but this allergy can cause the same symptoms.
Can you develop celiac disease later in life or do you always have it from childhood?
Celiac disease can be developed at any age, even though it is often associated with symptoms beginning in childhood. People can live for years without symptoms and suddenly develop symptoms or be diagnosed in middle age or even later. This can happen due to changes in the immune system or after a particular event, such as surgery, pregnancy, childbirth, viral infection, or severe emotional stress, which can trigger the disease.
The triggers and reasons why celiac disease manifests later in life are still the subject of research. This highlights the importance of awareness about celiac disease among all age groups and the importance of testing when symptoms consistent with celiac disease occur regardless of age.
When to Conduct Tests?
It is important to consider a blood test for celiac disease if you or someone in your family experiences the following symptoms:
- Chronic diarrhea or constipation
- Abdominal pain and bloated abdomen
- Unexplained anemia
- Fatigue and weight loss
- Skin problems such as dermatitis herpetiformis
With symptoms or if celiac disease runs in the family, a blood test can offer insight before switching to a gluten-free diet, which can affect results.
The symptoms of celiac disease are often similar to those of several other gastrointestinal conditions, which can complicate diagnosis. Here are some conditions with which the symptoms of celiac disease are often confused and the tests that can be used to differentiate or rule them out:
1. Irritable bowel syndrome (PDS).
Symptoms: Abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and/or constipation.
Symptoms: Abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and sometimes blood in the stool.
3. Colitis Ulcerosa, see the finger prick version here
Symptoms: Abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea and frequent, urgent bowel movements.
Symptoms: Immediate allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, swelling, and sometimes anaphylaxis after consumption of wheat products.
Symptoms: Diarrhea, gas and abdominal pain after consuming lactose-containing foods.
6. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO).
Symptoms: Abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation.
Diagnostic Tests for Celiac Disease
For the diagnosis of celiac disease, the following tests are known in mainstream care:
- Tissue transglutaminase IgA antibody (tTG-IgA): Most common screening test for celiac disease.
- Total serum IgA: To rule out IgA deficiency, which is more common in people with celiac disease.
- Small intestine biopsy: Gold standard for diagnosis if blood tests are positive.
Because many of these conditions have similar symptoms, it is important to perform comprehensive diagnostic tests to make the correct diagnosis. This ensures effective treatment and management of the specific condition.
Conclusion
Recognizing and timely diagnosing celiac disease is critical to improving the quality of life for anyone suffering from this condition. Since the symptoms of celiac disease often resemble those of other gastrointestinal disorders, proper diagnosis can be challenging. Fortunately, reliable blood tests, such as those available from Blood Value Testing, provide an effective way to identify celiac disease and other related conditions.
If you suffer from chronic gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss, consider a blood test for celiac disease. This also applies if you have a family member with celiac disease or if you suspect you have a gluten intolerance. An accurate diagnosis can make all the difference and lead to appropriate treatment, which often includes a gluten-free diet.
Take the step today to take your health seriously and get tested! By being proactive, you can alleviate your symptoms and improve your overall well-being. On this International Celiac Disease Day and every other day, we strive to increase understanding and awareness of this condition. Together, we can ensure a healthier future!