Assessment of Delays in Diagnosis of Coeliac Disease Among Pediatric Patients: A Nationwide Multicenter Investigation in Turkey
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By
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Yasin Sahin
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Eylem Sevinc
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Fatma Ilknur Varol
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Ulas Emre Akbulut
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Nevzat Aykut Bayrak
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Aysegul Bukulmez
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January 22, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: Assessment of Delays in Diagnosis of Coeliac Disease Among Pediatric Patients: A Nationwide Multicenter Investigation in Turkey
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Celiac Disease (CD) |
| Key Mechanisms | Triggered by gluten intake in genetically susceptible individuals. |
| Target Population | Pediatric patients diagnosed with Celiac Disease. |
| Care Setting | Multicenter study across seven regions in Turkey. |
Key Highlights
- Median diagnostic delay was 7.30 months.
- 91.5% of patients diagnosed within the first three years.
- No significant differences in diagnostic delays based on symptom type.
- Common symptoms included failure to thrive and chronic abdominal pain.
- Asymptomatic patients had shorter diagnostic delays.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Intestinal biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosing CD.
- Non-biopsy serology-based diagnosis is also possible.
Management
- Lifelong gluten-free diet (GFD) is the only effective treatment.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Regular follow-up to assess adherence to GFD and monitor for complications.
Risks
- Untreated CD can lead to malnutrition, anemia, osteoporosis, infertility, and increased cancer risk.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Children and adolescents with diagnosed Celiac Disease.
Early diagnosis and initiation of GFD are crucial to prevent complications.
Clinical Best Practices
- Educate families about the symptoms of CD for early recognition.
- Utilize serological tests for initial screening in high-risk populations.
- Ensure regular follow-up and dietary counseling for patients on GFD.
References
