Since celiac disease is an auto-immune disorder, people with celiac disease produce higher than normal levels of certain antibodies (anti-gliadin, anti-endomysium and anti-tissue transglutaminase). This is because their immune systems may recognize gluten as a foreign substance and produce elevated levels of antibodies to get rid of it.
A blood test can detect high levels of these antibodies.
To confirm the diagnosis, a biopsy of a small portion of intestinal tissue may be needed.
A trial of a gluten-free diet also can confirm a diagnosis, but it's important that you not go on such a diet before seeking a medical evaluation. Doing so may change the results of blood tests and biopsies so that they appear to be normal.
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