On many occasions, you might think that bread simply “doesn't agree with you”, but that discomfort could be a symptom of Coeliac disease, an autoimmune disease that affects the small intestine, triggered by gluten in genetically predisposed individuals.
If you suspect you have this condition, it is important to get coeliac disease testing to obtain a proper diagnosis.
What is concerning is that the majority of those suffering from this illness are unaware of it. Although it is estimated that a small percentage of the population is diagnosed, it is believed that a large majority of cases remain undetected. This is largely due to many people attributing the symptoms to other causes, such as an alleged intolerance to bread or carbohydrates in general.
For this reason, it is common not to know when to see a specialist, as the symptoms can be very varied and are often mistaken for common digestive discomforts. However, it is important to know that early diagnosis is key for avoid long-term complications.
Below, we explain in detail what coeliac disease tests exist, when it is advisable to perform them, and what treatment you should undertake.
La celiaquía es una enfermedad autoinmune en la que la ingestión de gluten provoca que el sistema inmunitario del cuerpo ataque al intestino delgado.
The Coeliac disease It is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system reacts adversely to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. When a coeliac person consumes gluten, a inflammation in the small intestine which damages the intestinal structures responsible for absorbing nutrients.
This damage can cause malabsorption problems which, if not treated in time, can affect other body systems, including the Cardiovascular, neurological and psychiatric system. It can also be a cause of infertility and lead to recurrent miscarriages.
The diagnosis of this illness requires a combination of Coeliac disease tests serological tests along with intestinal biopsies. Genetic analysis may be necessary in doubtful cases. Once diagnosed, treatment consists of following a gluten-free diet so that the symptoms disappear and quality of life gradually improves.
When should you get tested for celiac disease?
The symptoms can be very varied, although the most common ones include Abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. Coeliac disease tests should be carried out when the condition is suspected.
However, there are also signs not directly related to the digestive system, such as chronic fatigue, anaemia, migraines, or unexplained weight loss. It is important to have regular Coeliac disease tests in cases of unexplained infertility or recurrent miscarriages. In some cases, coeliac disease can develop without clear symptoms, making it even more crucial to detect it early.
It is advisable to have Coeliac disease tests If you have a first-degree relative who suffers from the disease, even if you are completely asymptomatic, as coeliac disease can be silent in some people.
Before any of these signs, don't hesitate to come to our Digestive médecine clinic in Madrid. Our medical team will support you throughout the entire process, and if coeliac disease is confirmed, we will offer you a personalised treatment plan adapted to your needs to improve your quality of life.
What are the tests for coeliac disease?
As we have previously discussed, the diagnosis of the Coeliac disease is based on a combination of Coeliac disease tests serological tests (blood tests), an intestinal biopsy and, in some cases, Coeliac disease tests genetics.
Serological tests
The main advantage of these coeliac disease tests is that they are fast y effective, as they allow for the detection of specific antibodies related to the presence of gluten in the body. Thanks to this, results are usually available within a few days, facilitating an accessible diagnosis.
However, they present a significant limitation: if the person is already following a low or gluten-free diet, antibody levels can be low or undetectable, which could lead to a false negative, even in patients who are indeed celiac. For this reason, it is essential not to remove gluten from the diet before undergoing coeliac disease testing, unless medically indicated.
In the event that the results are positive, the next step is to carry out a Gastroscopy with biopsies to ascertain if the small intestine is affected.
Nevertheless, there is a not insignificant percentage of coeliac patients who present with negative antibodies. In these cases, in addition to a gastroscopy, a genetic study will be necessary.
2. Genetic Testing
In many cases, it is necessary to resort to genetic testing for coeliac disease to detect the presence of the genes HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8, as these are found in most people with this illness.
However, it is important to note that their presence alone does not confirm the diagnosis, as they can also be present in healthy individuals who will never develop the disease.
Therefore, a positive result does not mean you have coeliac disease, but if it is negative, the disease can be ruled out with a high degree of reliability.
3. Intestinal Biopsy
In cases where serological tests are positive, it is recommended to perform a biopsy of the small intestine. This is also recommended in cases with a high suspicion of coeliac disease despite negative antibodies, but with positive genetics. This procedure is carried out via the Advanced endoscopic diagnostic technique (gastroscopy), which allows a small sample of intestinal tissue to be obtained for analysis.
It is very important to note that the patient must continue to consume gluten in their daily life, as if they eliminate it before undergoing the test, the results may not be accurate.
What to do if the diagnosis is positive?
If the results of the Coeliac disease tests They are positive, the treatment consists of following a strict gluten-free diet. This will allow the intestine to recover and regenerate positively over the years.
Furthermore, it is essential to have ongoing medical follow-up by specialists in Neurogastroenterology, to ensure proper development and prevent complications.
At Gastea, we perform the necessary coeliac testing to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Our aim is to achieve an accurate diagnosis to improve your quality of life and well-being.
