How is Celiac disease commonly diagnosed?

Celiac disease is primarily diagnosed through specific serological tests that identify antibodies indicative of an immune response to gluten. The most relevant tests are the IgA anti-endomysial antibodies (EMA) and anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies (anti-tTG). These tests are designed to detect the presence of these antibodies in the blood, which are highly specific to celiac disease.

When a patient has celiac disease, their immune system reacts abnormally to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, leading to the production of these antibodies. A positive result on these tests typically prompts further investigation, such as an endoscopy for biopsy confirmation. However, these antibody tests are the first-line diagnostic approach and are essential due to their effectiveness and specificity.

While endoscopy with biopsy is indeed an important method for confirming the diagnosis by examining intestinal damage, the initial screening is typically done through serological testing. Other testing options like blood tests for H. pylori or MRI of the digestive tract are not standard or directly relevant for the diagnosis of celiac disease, which further emphasizes the appropriateness of the serological tests.