Hospital Delay Means More Painful Tests for Toddler with Possible Celiac Disease

Celiac.com 06/09/2023 - Natasha Contardi's three-year-old daughter, Teagan, had gluten-related health issues to since birth. Concerned about whether Teagan had celiac disease or was simply gluten intolerant, Contardi sought medical advice. Teagan had already tested positive for the celiac gene, so Contardi decided to have her undergo tests for celiac disease at the Montreal Children's Hospital.

To ensure accurate results, doctors advised that Teagan needed to consume gluten for 12 weeks before the blood tests. During this period, Teagan suffered from various symptoms, including loss of appetite, stomach pain, emotional distress, itchy rashes, and discomfort during bowel movements.

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After enduring the 12-week period and undergoing the blood tests, Contardi faced another setback. Weeks passed without receiving any test results. After persistent inquiries, she discovered that the tests had not been performed due to an error, rendering the samples unusable. 

The hospital staff then informed a distraught Contardi that Teagan would need to restart the entire process, including another 12 weeks of consuming gluten.

Contardi expressed her devastation, both physically and emotionally, upon receiving this news, as her daughter had unnecessarily suffered for three months. "I do not even have the words to get across how physically and emotionally ruined I was when the doctor called me. It was devastating,” Contardi said. “Three full months of suffering for my daughter that did not have to happen."

The Montreal Children's Hospital did not comment on Teagan's case specifically, but acknowledged that errors in testing are rare and delays can occur due to staffing issues.

Contardi emphasized the importance of advocating for one's child's health, and not accepting prolonged delays or dismissive attitudes from medical professionals. She urged parents to continue fighting and seeking answers to ensure the well-being of their children. 

Contardi is anxiously awaiting the completion of the second testing process for Teagan, and hopes to find clarity regarding her daughter's condition.

Read more at globalnews.ca