Bonnie Lynn Mechanic Celiac Disease Clinic
The Celiac Disease Clinic uses a multidisciplinary approach to treating children and families with Celiac Disease. The team consists of a pediatric gastroenterologist, nursing and nutrition. We focus on the family in our education, support and follow up we give to our patients.
Celiac Disease
Celiac Disease is an inherited autoimmune disorder that affects the absorptive ability of the small intestine. When a person with celiac disease eats gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye and barley, the immune system will attack the small intestine and inhibit the absorption of nutrients into the body. Untreated Celiac Disease can lead to osteoporosis, infertility, autoimmune conditions, neurological conditions and in rare cases, cancer.
Prevalence of Celiac Disease in the United States
In average healthy people: 1 in 133 In people with related symptoms: 1 in 56 In people with first-degree relative (parent, child, sibling) who are celiac: 1 in 22.
Who should be screened for Celiac Disease?
Patients with chronic abdominal pain, recurrent diarrhea, and weight loss Unexplained anemia Family members of a patient with Celiac Disease Patients diagnosed with:
- Downs Syndrome.
- Thyroiditis.
- Type I Diabetes.
What is the screening tests for Celiac Disease?
The following Celiac Panel is recommended:
- Antiendomysial Ab.
- Tissue Transglutaminase.
- IgA Level.
If the initial screening is positive, an endoscopy to accurately diagnosis the disease.
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