Updates on the diagnosis and management of celiac disease

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune enteropathy affecting about 1% of the population. Gluten ingestion triggers an immune response in genetically susceptible patients, resulting in intestinal and extraintestinal disease manifestations. Current recommendations for diagnosis include serology for celiac-specific antibodies to transglutaminase, endomysium, and deamidated gliadin, and IgA serology. New highly accurate point-of-care tests can efficiently screen for celiac disease and improve the diagnostic timeframe. Definitive diagnosis is most commonly made via biopsy of the small bowel showing villous atrophy. A gluten-free diet with micronutrient supplementation is the only recommended treatment for celiac disease. Primary care providers must be able to recognize screening indications, refer patients appropriately, and provide proper patient education and follow-up.