Wellness

Coeliac Screen

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system reacts to gluten in the diet, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. The Coeliac Screen tests for antibodies that indicate an immune response to gluten, helping to diagnose or rule out coeliac disease. This test is useful for individuals experiencing digestive issues, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, iron deficiency, loss of periods, mouth ulcers, early onset osteoporosis or unexplained symptoms related to gluten consumption. Early detection and diagnosis can help manage symptoms through a gluten-free diet. If your test is positive, you may need to see a gastroenterologist for an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy ("scope") and tissue taken from the gut to confirm the diagnosis.

Test details

Sample type
Blood
Time of day
No specific time required
Fasting required
No
Results timeframe
Within 7 days
Preparation
Continue eating gluten-containing foods before the test; a gluten-free diet may cause false-negative results. A normal amount of gluten is about 4 slices of toast or its equivalent for at least 4-8 weeks (see coeliac.org.nz for more information)

What's measured in this test

Tissue Transglutaminase Immunoglobulin A

Screens for celiac disease.

Common reasons for testing

  • Chronic Digestive Issues – Assesses symptoms such as bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, or stomach pain linked to gluten intolerance.
  • Unexplained Weight Loss or Nutrient Deficiencies – Evaluates potential malabsorption of nutrients caused by coeliac disease.
  • Fatigue or Brain Fog – Investigates symptoms that may be related to gluten-related autoimmune reactions.
  • Autoimmune Disease Risk – Screens individuals with a family history of coeliac disease or other autoimmune disorders.
  • Skin Conditions – Helps diagnose dermatitis herpetiformis, a skin condition linked to gluten sensitivity.