Celiac disease
Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disease triggered by gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. In people with celiac disease, gluten consumption triggers an immune response that leads to inflammation and damage to the villi of the small intestine, interfering with nutrient absorption.
The disease is most common in people with a genetic predisposition and can occur at any age. The symptoms of celiac disease are varied and can include both gastrointestinal disorders and systemic effects.
Symptoms of Celiac Disease
The most common symptoms include:
- Diarrhoea, bloating, abdominal pain and constipation.
- Unexplained weight loss and chronic fatigue.
- Anemia due to iron or vitamin deficiency.
- Skin reactions, such as herpetic dermatitis.
- Growth retardation and low weight in children.
- Neurological problems, such as headaches and numbness.
In some people, the disease may be silent, with no obvious symptoms, but damage to the small intestine remains.
Blood tests
Tissue Transglutaminase IgA antibodies (tTG-IgA): The presence of these antibodies is extremely important for the diagnosis of celiac disease.
Tissue Transglutaminase IgG antibodies (tTG-IgG): Used in people with IgA deficiency.
Intramuscular IgA antibodies (EMA-IgA) and Total IgA : Used to confirm celiac disease.
Total IgA: Check to rule out IgA deficiency, as this may affect the accuracy of other tests.
Early Diagnosis
Early diagnosis is critical to avoid long-term complications such as osteoporosis, malnutrition, autoimmune diseases and an increased risk of intestinal lymphomas.
In our laboratory, we offer comprehensive diagnostic services for celiac disease. Our tests include:
- Reliable blood tests for tTG-IgA, tTG-IgG, (EMA-IgA) and Total IgA.
- Testing of total IgA to assess possible deficiency.
The laboratory test for the diagnosis of celiac disease which includes specific antibodies and total IgE costs 65€.
