Investigating Coeliac Disease: A Request for Clarification
I need some guidance! I'm a 27-year-old female experiencing symptoms that may indicate coeliac disease. My sister has been diagnosed with coeliac disease following a tTG-IgA blood test. I spoke with my healthcare provider to arrange for the same testing, but the results I received today do not include the tTG-IgA test. Instead, I've been provided with results from a complete blood count, adjusted calcium levels, liver function tests, serum folate, serum TSH, total vitamin D, and serum B12. According to the findings, my vitamin D levels are low, and I'm also slightly anemic, with low iron levels; however, my doctor did not mention anything regarding coeliac disease specifically. Upon reviewing my blood test results further, I noticed that my monocytes are at the upper limit of the normal range—0.98 within a reference range of 0.2 to 1. Despite the low vitamin D and iron, my doctor reassured me that everything else appears to be normal. At this point, I'm wondering if I should advocate for the tTG-IgA test. I'm feeling quite overwhelmed and confused, especially given the history of coeliac disease in my immediate family. I believed this test would have been prioritized due to my family history!
Answers (1)
3/20/2025, 8:40:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel overwhelmed given your symptoms and family history of coeliac disease. Here's a breakdown of your situation and actionable steps you can take.
Main Points:
- Your symptoms and family history warrant further investigation for coeliac disease, particularly the tTG-IgA test.
- Your current blood results indicate low vitamin D and iron, which could be linked to various factors, including coeliac disease.
- Advocating for further testing is a wise and necessary step given your concerns.
Explanation:
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. A positive family history increases your risk, making it important to check for this condition. The tTG-IgA (tissue transglutaminase antibody) test is commonly used to screen for coeliac disease. Your current symptoms, low vitamin D, and low iron levels indicate a need for more investigation, as conditions like coeliac can lead to malabsorption of nutrients.
Next Steps:
-
Reach Out to Your Healthcare Provider: Contact your doctor and express your concerns clearly. Mention your family history and your desire to be tested for the tTG-IgA antibodies specifically.
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Document Symptoms: Keep a record of any symptoms you’ve been experiencing (like gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, or changes in appetite) to share with your doctor.
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Understand next steps: Ask your doctor about what further tests may be needed if the tTG-IgA is positive. This may include an endoscopic biopsy for confirmation.
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Consider Nutritional Support: In the meantime, since you have low vitamin D and iron levels, focus on dietary sources. Increase your intake of:
- Vitamin D: fatty fish, fortified foods, and consider safe sun exposure.
- Iron: lean meats, beans, dark leafy greens, and consider taking iron supplements if advised by your doctor.
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Follow-up Schedule: Ensure to set a follow-up appointment or check-in with your provider regarding your test results and further steps.
It's important to advocate for your health actively, especially with a family history of coeliac disease. You deserve clarity and support through this process. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask.
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