Interpretation of diagnostic test results

Interpretation of diagnostic test results is a crucial step in the process of confirming celiac disease. After performing the relevant tests, it is important to understand the results and their clinical significance in order to establish an accurate and appropriate diagnosis.

It is important to note that interpretation of diagnostic test results can be complicated and should be performed by a physician or healthcare professional trained in the diagnosis and treatment of celiac disease.

Diagnosis is based on the concurrence of several factors. The first of these is clinical suspicion and thereafter the combination of multiple tests, including antibody testing, endoscopy with intestinal biopsy and genetic testing. None of the tests alone confirms the diagnosis; at least two must be compatible with celiac disease for greater certainty.

Types of celiac disease

There are several types of celiac disease, which can be classified according to different criteria. According to the severity of the disease:

• Classic celiac disease: this is the most common form and is characterized by gastrointestinal symptoms and nutrient absorption problems.

• Non-classic or atypical celiac disease: characterized by extra-intestinal symptoms such as fatigue, anemia, headache, skin problems, among others.

• Silent or asymptomatic celiac disease: this is a form of celiac disease in which there are no symptoms, but antibodies are detected in the blood test or intestinal biopsy.

• Potential celiac disease: may have symptoms similar to celiac disease, such as abdominal bloating, diarrhea, fatigue, abdominal pain and problems absorbing nutrients, but do not have the characteristic changes in the intestinal mucosa seen in celiac disease. People with potential celiac disease should still avoid gluten to prevent the development of celiac disease in the future and to alleviate their current symptoms.

According to the age of onset of symptoms:

• Early-onset celiac disease: refers to celiac disease that presents in childhood.

• Late-onset celiac disease: refers to celiac disease that occurs in adulthood.

Confirming the diagnosis

As can be seen, it is not easy to confirm the diagnosis of celiac disease. All variables must be evaluated: symptoms, family history, blood antibody levels, degree of damage to the small intestine and genetic predisposition.

Diagnostic protocols exist and depending on the combination of positive or negative results it can be confirmed whether the person has celiac disease or is likely to develop it in the future.