Description
Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that damages the small intestine and prevents proper nutrient absorption. The condition is triggered by an immune reaction to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.
Symptoms of Celiac Disease
Common symptoms include:
- Diarrhea, bloating, or gas
- Fatigue or weakness
- Weight loss or poor growth
- Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting
Note: Many people with celiac disease may have no symptoms, making testing important for diagnosis.
What the Celiac Disease Panel Tests For
A typical celiac disease panel includes:
- Tissue Transglutaminase (tTG) IgA
- Total IgA antibody
- Sometimes deamidated gliadin IgA and IgG antibodies
These tests help detect an immune response to gluten, indicating potential celiac disease.
Accuracy and Preparation
- The tTG-IgA test is about 93% sensitive and 96% specific, making it highly reliable.
- Dietary requirement: To ensure accurate results, you must eat gluten before the test.
- Fasting: Not required.
