University of Chicago's Celiac Impact Newsletter, April 2016

[cyclinglady]

I get this newsletter from the University of Chicago.  Interesting read!  

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[SLLRunner]

What  great newsletter!

[Gemini]

While it is an interesting read, the notion that you cannot make a full diagnosis with either the biopsy or the antibody testing alone is ridiculous and outdated.  Every case should be treated individually and in many cases, the symptoms and results of either test is a slam dunk for Celiac, especially when the patient responds well to the gluten-free diet.  I never had the biopsy because I was too ill at the time of diagnosis but interestingly enough, every single MD I have shown my blood work results to has never doubted my diagnosis. Of course, it helps that I presented with classic Celiac and my size is another big indicator of the disease.  I also have had no trouble asking for and receiving Celiac related testing for deficiencies and other issues that are a problem for us.

I think in certain cases where the testing results are not clear cut, a person may have to go through more extensive testing but not everyone is so hard to diagnose.

[psawyer]

My diagnosis, in the summer of 2000, was based solely on biopsy results. The blood tests were not yet available where I live. My health improved dramatically when I went gluten-free. I see no reason to doubt my diagnosis, and I am certainly not going to to a gluten challenge to see if antibodies develop. Biopsies are expensive, and make lots of money for the doctors. Just saying.