Not Enough Evidence to Screen for Celiac Disease in Asymptomatic Patients

The statement does not address targeted screening in patients at above-average risk.

Sponsoring Organization: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)

Target Audience: Primary care providers

Background

Growing awareness and possibly rising prevalence of celiac disease prompted the USPSTF to review available evidence and issue a new recommendation statement on screening for celiac disease in asymptomatic adults, adolescents, and children.

Key Findings

The USPSTF found insufficient evidence to recommend for or against screening of asymptomatic adults or children, or to assess the balance of benefits and harms of treating asymptomatic patients with a gluten-free diet.
Tissue transglutaminase IgA testing is highly sensitive and specific for histologic celiac disease, and endomysial antibody IgA testing is highly specific; however…

Reviewing Author

Thomas L. Schwenk, MD

Disclosures

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