Diagnosis
Coeliac blood tests should be used for initial screening (“coeliac serology and IgA”). If the results are positive, a referral to a gastroenterologist will be necessary. The diagnosis must be confirmed by performing a gastroscopy (an endoscope is passed through the mouth into the small bowel), a procedure that allows tiny samples (biopsies) to be taken from the small bowel which can reveal if gluten is causing damage. A gastroscopy is done in a hospital or day procedure centre while the patient is sedated (most people find it very straight forward). Taking small bowel biopsies is an essential part of diagnosing coeliac disease as the blood test alone is not definitive. A second biopsy is usually performed after about twelve months on a gluten free diet to show that repair of the damage has occurred.
“At risk” groups, such as first degree relatives and people
with type 1 diabetes, should be tested for coeliac disease.
Reference: Coeliac Society of Western Australia Inc.
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