In a recent podcast episode of The Curbsiders, entitled “How to Not Miss Celiac Disease,” Matthew Watto, MD and Paul Williams, MD discuss how to recognize both classic and non-classical presentations of celiac disease and understand diagnostic testing, management, and proper follow-up for patients. The episode was chock-full of important facts and guidelines for physicians and patients, but some of the main takeaways include:
- 1% of the U.S. population has celiac disease. Given how many people are affected, celiac disease should be considered more often as a potential diagnosis.
- Celiac disease is genetic, so it’s recommended to screen family members for celiac disease as well.
- Think outside the classic picture of celiac disease and look out for other clues, such as iron deficiency anemia.
- Most patients require a biopsy to confirm a celiac disease diagnosis – a positive celiac serology is generally not enough.
- One of the most helpful things you can do for a newly diagnosed celiac disease patient is refer them to a dietitian who is familiar with the gluten-free diet.
Watch the episode here.