FAQ

What are the tests for coeliac disease?

The first test for coeliac disease is a blood test done by your GP that looks for antibodies that the body makes in response to eating gluten. If the blood test is positive, your GP will then refer you to a hospital specialist (gastroenterologist) for an endoscopy with biopsy.

In some cases, an endoscopy might not be needed to diagnose coeliac disease. Guidelines published in June 2020 in response to the Covid-19 pandemic recommend that some adults can be diagnosed without the need for a biopsy if they:

  • are 55 years or younger
  • don't need an endoscopy to rule out another condition
  • have symptoms of coeliac disease
  • have very high antibody levels (if IgA tTG is at least 10 times the upper limit of normal)
  • and have a second positive antibody blood test (EMA or IgA tTG if EMA is not available)

If you have any concerns about testing, the best thing to do is to talk with your healthcare team.

You can also take Coeliac UK’s online assessment to find out if your symptoms may be caused by coeliac disease.

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