What Is a Celiac?
7. Diagnosis
People in the early stages of celiac often do not know they have the disease. There are two types of tests used to determine whether a person has celiac. A genetic test that looks for the presence of human leukocyte antigens can rule out celiac. A serology test is used to look for the presence of certain antibodies that are indicative of an immune reaction to gluten.
If either of the tests indicate the possibility that a person has gluten, one of two additional tests is ordered. A manual endoscopy is performed to examine the condition of the intestines and take a sample for analysis of damage to the villi. A capsule endoscopy is used to take photos of the intestines as the capsule moves through the digestive tract.
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