What Type Of Follow-up Is Needed?

[scooper]

My daughters were diagnosed with Celiac in Jan and March through positive blood tests and a positive intestinal biopsy for my oldest.

Since the diet change, my 13 year old has started her period and grown 3 inches.

My 11 year old has stopped having stomach problems and looks much healthier.

I don't remember the GI specialist giving any directions on returning for further follow-ups. Do you guys suggest doing another blood test - if so after what amount of time? We'll go see our pediatrician soon for a check up, but she seems to look for my lead in terms of the Celiac treatment.

The GI doc originally did a bone scan and checked for diabetes and thyroid problems. Is there any reason to repeat those tests periodically?

Thanks for any suggestions.

[taweavmo3]

After my daughter was diagnosed, we followed up with the GI 6 months later for a repeat blood test and weight check. Then we followed up two more times, mainly just to check in, have her weighed, and to answer any questions I may have. It's been 3 years, and he said we can check in once a year now. Our regular pedi has done some additional blood work for thyroid and Hgb since she still gets fatigued easily. But that's really it, I don't really feel the need to check in with the GI unless other symptoms pop up.

[bear6954]

I was told that 5 years after diagnosis that my son would need to have a bone scan to make sure he does not have osteoperosis (sp?). I asked my dr to do a blood test to check my sons liver fuction.

[cruelshoes]

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How often should follow-uptesting occur?

New celiacs should receive follow-up testing twice in the first year after their diagnosis. The first appointment should occur three to six months after the diagnosis, and the second should occur after 1 year on the gluten-free diet. After that, a celiac should receive follow-up testing on a yearly basis.

What tests are needed at follow-up appointments? How are they interpreted?

New guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of celiac disease by the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition state that tTG-IgA testing should be used for follow-up care. Interpreting this test result is straightforward