Blood Tests Positive..do I Really Need A Biopsy?

[Gemini]

Well I saw the consulant today and i asked if I really need the biopsy? He said unfortunately yes because we have to go through proper protocols. I asked if it is possible to not find anything on the biopsy even if i am celiac? He laughed and said yes there is a good chance the biopsy could not find anything depending on how long ive had celiac/if ive been consuming enough gluten/and where samples are taken. He told me not to worry because in the event of that happening he would become my advocate and dx me as celiac based on symptoms, history and blood results. (feel so relieved that whatever the biopsy outcome, he will dx me...just nervous of going through it now!).

He said I will need a bone density test? and is sending me for blood tests (B12 etc). And wants my close family to be celiac tested. He also said that whilst doing the biopsy they would check for lactose issues?

It was nice to have a doctor who listened and seemed thorough. He then said Have a very happy gluten-free Christmas !!

OK....I don't mean to beat a dead horse here but if he is willing to diagnosis you even if the biopsy is negative, why don't they just do it now? Oy Vay......doctors!

Yes, get the bone density done. Celiacs have a high rate of osteoporosis but you may not be there yet. Even if you are, once you go gluten-free and start absorbing your calcium again, things can self correct over time. But it's good to know.

Even though I don't agree with their reasoning for a biopsy, it seems this doctor is well versed in all other aspects of obtaining a diagnosis and what other tests you need and that is good. He even knows that the biopsy can be negative with full blown Celiac.

That is a definite positive. Good luck and let us know the outcome!

BTW...good luck with the relatives. That can be more diffcult than getting a diagnosis!

[GottaSki]

Yes, get the bone density done. Celiacs have a high rate of osteoporosis but you may not be there yet. Even if you are, once you go gluten-free and start absorbing your calcium again, things can self correct over time. But it's good to know.

Yes, it is wise to get the bone density -- mine was very bad for early forties when diagnosed -- this is one of the best improvements I've had over the last four years...from what I understand we replace our bones in about 5 years -- good food along with exercise will make a new stronger set

I second Gemini's good wishes -- relatives can me more frustrating than docs -- hope your transition goes smoothly -- if not come hang out here.

[VeggieGal]

Hi Gemini, yes its frustrating Ive still got to go through the motions of a biopsy especially with me being scared of further damage to vocal chord (he tried to assure me that the tube is a good 2" away from chords). I forgot to ask him if they could do a skin biopsy on my scalp instead..oh well I just want it over before christmas now.

Gemini/Gottaski, thanks its reassuring to know that if its not gone to far then bones can heal..must admit it was another worry with my dad having rheumatoid arthritus.

Yes I agree, my main struggle now will be my family..my dads already said he cant see the point getting tested (hes only 65 and could have another 20/30 years or so of feeling healthier..hes stubborn pffft!).

[VeggieGal]

Do you think Its worth me asking for a scalp biopsy or shall I just be brave and get the normal biopsy over and done with being as itl be quicker ?

[Celiac Mindwarp]

Sounds like a good doctor to me. I guess they sometimes have to cover their own backs but it is very good you will get your diagnosis in the end. There may be other useful info from the endoscopy. I found a small hiatus hernia which explains some of the reflux and was very relieved to find no other nasties going on.

Good luck with your Dad. My Mum is about the same age with a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome, but sickness, D, migraines, exhaustion, disturbed sleep, multiple intolerances, brain fog and slurred speech look pretty familiar to me...

Can't help on the other test you mentioned

Best wishes

[megsybeth]

Hi VeggieGal, Have you gone gluten free? I think your specialist sounds reasonable and experienced so there seems little risk of the endo being use to rule OUT celiac so I don't see why you shouldn't. I personally gave up gluten based on blood work. There wasn't a doubt to me that I would stay gluten free for life, especially after immediate improvement. BUT I'm having the endo done Wednesday (after two months off gluten). My GI told me that it takes a long time for the intestine to heal. She actually said I should stay gluten free and could probably take a few months to decide if I want to have endo done as well. For diagnostic purposes, the issues would not change that much.

I am having it done because it's covered and it gives me more information about what's going on. And, it's not rational, but I want to have biopsies in case of intestinal cancer. I know it's very rare, but I feel like my body has been neglected for so long. It's kind of an emotional need to check into everything.

[VeggieGal]

Well il keep you updated on biopsy..I think youre right CMW, the biopsy may tell me other things and consultant did say theyd check for lactose issues.

I totally agree with you Megsybeth..best to check everything and know what youre dealing with. Although i wish my graves thyroid doctor had checked me for celiac years ago and it was routine over here if theres other auto-immune diseases. Im back eating the poisonous gluten stuff until after biopsy..I can't wait to start the process of healing

Anyway, I can deal with it now at least...will let you know my results soon

[GottaSki]

Although i wish my graves thyroid doctor had checked me for celiac years ago and it was routine over here if theres other auto-immune diseases. Im back eating the poisonous gluten stuff until after biopsy..I can't wait to start the process of healing

Testing for Celiac Disease should done along side all blood tests for inflammation -- my first Rhuemy didn't believe my Celiac Disease could be responsible for any of my AI symptoms -- our doctors are capable of some great things, but sure need to go back to school to learn the connection between nutrition and autoimmune and gasto disorders!