So, what *are* the appropriate tests?

[Wildflower Morning]

My mother wants to get tested for celiac, but will only go to her GP.  He doesn't seem to be terribly knowledgeable about celiac, and I'm afraid he won't be familiar with the appropriate tests to order.  I'd like her to go in knowledgeable and forearmed with the correct information.  So...what *are* the appropriate tests for celiac?

[cyclinglady]

 

-Tissue Transglutaminase (tTG) IgA and (tTG) IgG

-Deamidated Gliadin Peptide (DGP) IgA and (DGP) IgG

-EMA IgA 

-total serum IgA and IgG (control test)

-AGA IGA and AGA IgG - older and less reliable tests largely replace by the DGP tests

 

-endoscopic biopsy - make sure at least 6 samples are taken

 

VERY IMPORTANT:  Keep eating gluten daily until ALL testing is complete or the tests can be inaccurate.  

 

(Source: NVSMOM -- ?)

 

 

[Wildflower Morning]

Thank you!  Would you suggest she get *all* those tests?  (I'm wondering since it says the last one has largely been replaced by the DGP test.)  I just want to make sure I'm pointing her in the right direction.

[cyclinglady]

You can disregard the AGA tests.  Some countries do not have the newer DGP tests.  Some insurance companies will prefer just the TTG test with the IGA deficiency control test.  It is used as a first screening and catches most celiacs.  Not me.  I tested positive on only the DGP IGA test.  I was lucky my doctor ordered the complete panel otherwise my diagnosis would have been missed.  If she tests negative on the TTG, you can push (fight) for the balance of the other tests if you think she does have celiac disease.  

[Wildflower Morning]

Thank you!!  I'll let my mom know.  :-)