Question 1

What is Celiac Disease?

Accepted Answer

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the small intestine when gluten is consumed. It is caused by an abnormal immune response to gluten proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye, leading to intestinal damage and nutrient malabsorption. The Anti-tTG IgA (Tissue Transglutaminase IgA) test is the most important test for diagnosis because it detects the primary antibody elevated in active celiac disease.

Question 2

What causes Celiac Disease?

Accepted Answer

Celiac disease is caused by an abnormal immune response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When people with celiac disease eat gluten, their immune system produces antibodies that attack the small intestine lining, specifically targeting tissue transglutaminase enzymes. This autoimmune reaction damages the villi, tiny fingerlike projections that absorb nutrients, leading to inflammation, malabsorption of vitamins and minerals, and a range of digestive and systemic symptoms throughout the body.

Question 3

What is the best test for Celiac Disease?

Accepted Answer

The Anti-tTG IgA (Tissue Transglutaminase IgA) test is the most important test for celiac disease because it detects the primary antibody that becomes elevated when your immune system reacts to gluten. This test has excellent accuracy for identifying active celiac disease. The Gliadin (Deamidated Peptide) Antibody test checking both IgG and IgA is also essential, especially if you have IgA deficiency, as it measures antibodies against specific gluten proteins. For comprehensive diagnosis, the Celiac Disease Comprehensive Panel combines multiple antibody tests to give you a complete picture. Genetic testing for HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 markers can determine if you have the genes associated with celiac disease risk.

Question 4

When should I get tested for Celiac Disease?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience chronic digestive issues like diarrhea, bloating, gas, or abdominal pain after eating bread or pasta. Testing is also important if you have unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, skin rashes like dermatitis herpetiformis, or a family history of celiac disease. If you notice symptoms of nutrient deficiency such as anemia, bone pain, or tingling in your hands and feet, these could indicate celiac-related malabsorption. It is crucial to continue eating gluten-containing foods before testing, as following a gluten-free diet can cause false-negative results.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of Celiac Disease?

Accepted Answer

Celiac disease symptoms vary widely and affect both the digestive system and other parts of the body. Common digestive symptoms include chronic diarrhea or constipation, bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and nausea. Many people experience fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and skin rashes. Nutrient malabsorption can cause anemia, bone or joint pain, tingling numbness in hands and feet, headaches, and mouth ulcers. Children may have delayed growth and development. Some people with celiac disease have no obvious symptoms but still experience intestinal damage.

Question 6

Who is at risk for Celiac Disease?

Accepted Answer

People with a family history of celiac disease have a significantly higher risk, as the condition has a strong genetic component. Those with other autoimmune disorders like type 1 diabetes, autoimmune thyroid disease, or rheumatoid arthritis are at increased risk. Individuals with Down syndrome or Turner syndrome also have higher rates of celiac disease. Having the HLA-DQ2 or HLA-DQ8 genes increases your risk, though not everyone with these genes develops the condition. Northern European ancestry is associated with higher celiac disease rates.

Question 7

What happens if Celiac Disease is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated celiac disease leads to continued intestinal damage and serious health complications over time. Chronic malabsorption causes severe vitamin and mineral deficiencies, leading to osteoporosis, anemia, and neurological problems. You face an increased risk of intestinal cancers and lymphoma. Infertility and recurrent miscarriages are more common in people with undiagnosed celiac disease. Long-term damage can result in lactose intolerance, liver disease, and gallbladder problems. The persistent inflammation weakens your immune system and increases susceptibility to other autoimmune conditions. Early diagnosis and strict gluten avoidance prevent these complications.

Question 8

Can Celiac Disease be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, blood tests are the first step in diagnosing celiac disease and are highly accurate for detecting the condition. The Anti-tTG IgA test measures tissue transglutaminase antibodies that are elevated in celiac disease, while gliadin antibody tests detect immune responses to gluten proteins. Genetic blood tests can identify HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 markers associated with celiac disease. However, a positive blood test is typically followed by an upper endoscopy with small intestine biopsy to confirm the diagnosis by examining tissue damage. You must continue eating gluten before testing for accurate results.

Question 9

How is Celiac Disease treated?

Accepted Answer

The only treatment for celiac disease is following a strict lifelong gluten-free diet, eliminating all foods containing wheat, barley, and rye. This allows your small intestine to heal and prevents further damage. You will need to carefully read food labels and avoid cross-contamination in food preparation. Your doctor may recommend vitamin and mineral supplements to address deficiencies caused by malabsorption, particularly iron, calcium, vitamin D, and B vitamins. Regular follow-up blood tests monitor your antibody levels and nutritional status. Working with a dietitian experienced in celiac disease helps ensure you maintain proper nutrition while avoiding gluten.

Question 10

How can I prevent Celiac Disease?

Accepted Answer

Celiac disease cannot be prevented because it is an autoimmune condition with a strong genetic component. If you have the HLA-DQ2 or HLA-DQ8 genes and a family history, you cannot change your genetic predisposition. However, early detection through blood testing allows you to start a gluten-free diet before serious complications develop. Some research suggests that introducing gluten to infants gradually during breastfeeding may influence celiac disease development, but evidence is inconclusive. If you have risk factors, regular screening helps catch the condition early and prevent long-term intestinal damage.

Question 11

What can I do at home for Celiac Disease?

Accepted Answer

At home, strictly eliminate all gluten-containing foods from your diet, including bread, pasta, cereals, and baked goods made with wheat, barley, or rye. Create a gluten-free kitchen by using separate cooking utensils, cutting boards, and toasters to prevent cross-contamination. Focus on naturally gluten-free whole foods like fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, and gluten-free grains such as rice and quinoa. Take vitamin supplements as recommended by your doctor to address nutritional deficiencies. Join celiac disease support groups for recipes, tips, and emotional support. Always read ingredient labels carefully and ask about food preparation when eating out.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Celiac Disease Blood Test

What is Celiac Disease?

What causes Celiac Disease?

What is the best test for Celiac Disease?

When should I get tested for Celiac Disease?

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