USMLE Prep - Medical Reference Library

Celiac Disease — Diagnosis, Diet, and Monitoring

System: Gastroenterology • Reviewed: Aug 31, 2025 • Step 1Step 2Step 3

Synopsis:

Test with tTG‑IgA and total IgA; confirm with duodenal biopsy (unless pediatric no‑biopsy criteria met). Lifelong gluten‑free diet; monitor serology, micronutrients, and bone health.

Key Points

  • Stabilize ABCs; begin targeted evaluation without delaying life-saving therapy.
  • Use system-specific risk tools to guide testing and disposition.
  • Order high-yield tests first; escalate imaging when indicated.
  • Start evidence-based initial therapy and reassess frequently.

Algorithm

  1. Primary survey and vitals; IV access and monitors.
  2. Focused history/physical; identify red flags and likely etiologies.
  3. Order system-appropriate labs and imaging (see Investigations).
  4. Initiate guideline-based empiric therapy (see Pharmacology).
  5. Reassess response; arrange consultation and definitive management.

Clinical Synopsis & Reasoning

For Celiac Disease Diagnosis Diet And Monitoring, frame the differential by acuity and pathophysiology, then align diagnostics to the leading hypotheses. Prioritize stabilization while obtaining high‑yield studies such as CBC (Bleeding/anemia), CMP (LFTs/electrolytes), Lipase (if pancreatitis) (Pancreatic enzyme), CT Abd/Pelvis (selected) (Complications). Incorporate bedside imaging and targeted labs to define severity and identify complications; synthesize results with clinical trajectory to refine the working diagnosis and disposition needs.


Treatment Strategy & Disposition

Initiate disease‑directed therapy alongside supportive care, titrating to objective response. Pharmacologic options commonly include PPI (IV), Octreotide (variceal). Use validated frameworks (e.g., Common Deficiencies & Follow‑up) to guide escalation and site of care. Address precipitating factors, de‑escalate empiric therapies with data, and arrange follow‑up for monitoring and risk‑factor modification; admit patients with instability, high risk of deterioration, or needs for close monitoring.


Management Notes

Beware false negatives if already gluten‑free. Coordinate with dietitians for label reading and cross‑contamination.


Epidemiology / Risk Factors

  • NSAIDs/alcohol; biliary disease

Investigations

TestRole / RationaleTypical FindingsNotes
CBCBleeding/anemiaLow Hgb
CMPLFTs/electrolytesAbnormal LFTs
Lipase (if pancreatitis)Pancreatic enzymeElevated
CT Abd/Pelvis (selected)ComplicationsFindings vary

Common Deficiencies & Follow‑up

ItemPlan
Iron/folate/B12Replete and recheck
Vitamin D/calciumSupplement; DEXA as indicated
VaccinationsPer standard; consider pneumococcal
Diet reviewDietitian at diagnosis and annually
Refractory celiacEvaluate for lymphoma, SIBO

Pharmacology

MedicationMechanismOnsetRole in TherapyLimitations
AcetaminophenAnalgesic/antipyreticHoursSymptom control as appropriateHepatotoxicity (overdose)
Ondansetron5-HT3 antagonismMinutesAntiemesis if neededQT prolongation

Prognosis / Complications

  • Varies by etiology and bleeding severity; rebleeding/perforation

Patient Education / Counseling

  • Explain red flags and when to seek emergent care.
  • Reinforce medication adherence and follow-up plan.

References

  1. ACG Celiac Guideline — Link