THey like to send you to a GI specialist, BUT any doctor can order the blood work. The blood tests will be covered by insurance. I would call her primary care physician and explain that she changed her diet a week ago, feels better already and doesn't want to go back to eating the problem foods...and you would like to run the blood tests ASAP before the window of opportunity closes. I'd try to get those run this week if possible.

The definitive dx for "celiac disease" is based upon a biopsy, but the blood test results would tell you a lot. If positive, a biopsy may really not be necessary. If negative, they'd probably refuse a biopsy anyway....and she already has had a positive response to the diet and would likely stay on it despite a negative result.

If you think you would want biopsy proof of celiac disease, now or EVER, best to get her back on gluten until blood work and biopsy could be scheduled.

The Diagnostic testing is all explained in The Gluten File~ Diagnostic Testing page. Be sure they include the antigliadin antibody tests, often considered optional or out of date.

There is mainstream testing, alternative testing, and self testing by elimination diet. You need to decide what is important for YOU (HER) in terms of official diagnosis.

The biggest caution I give is that many people improve with dietary changes even in the absence of biopsy proven celiac disease, so if those tests results are negative...always give the dietary trial a chance. In this case, it sounds the dietary trial has already spoken. You may still want to look for an official diagnosis, however. Up to you.

Cara