Interpreting diagnostic testing results - nutrition

Interpretation of diagnostic test results is a crucial step in the process of confirming celiac disease. After testing, it is critical to understand its clinical significance in order to establish a proper diagnosis.

It is important that the results are interpreted by a physician or professional trained in the diagnosis and treatment of celiac disease, as it can be complex.

Diagnosis depends on several factors, starting with clinical suspicion. Then, various tests are combined, such as antibody analysis, endoscopy with intestinal biopsy and genetic testing. No single test alone confirms celiac disease, at least two tests must be compatible for greater certainty.

Types of celiac disease

There are several types of celiac disease, classified according to different criteria:

According to the severity of the disease:

• Classic celiac disease: characterized by gastrointestinal symptoms and nutrient absorption problems.

• Non-classic or atypical celiac disease: Includes extraintestinal symptoms such as fatigue, anemia, headache and skin problems.

• Silent or asymptomatic celiac disease: No obvious symptoms, but detected by antibody tests or intestinal biopsy.

• Potential celiac disease: It presents symptoms similar to celiac disease, but without evident damage to the intestinal mucosa. It is recommended to avoid gluten to prevent its complete development.

According to the age of onset of symptoms:

• Early-onset celiac disease: appears during childhood.

• Late-onset celiac disease: Appears in adulthood.

Confirming the diagnosis

Confirming the diagnosis of celiac disease involves evaluating symptoms, family history, blood antibody levels, intestinal damage and genetic predisposition.

Diagnostic protocols can confirm whether a person has celiac disease or if there is a likelihood of developing it in the future, depending on the combination of results.

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