Getting a celiac diagnosis is no longer a one-size-fits-all journey. At the Columbia Symposium, global experts shared how testing and diagnosis are evolving, and what that means for patients.

Here’s what’s changing:

• Non-biopsy diagnosis for some children: Several countries now allow a diagnosis of celiac without an internal biopsy if blood test results are extremely high and symptoms are present. Canada still requires a biopsy, but the international momentum may influence future guidelines.

• Improved screening strategies: Researchers are now looking at how to identify high-risk individuals sooners, including family members of people with celiac, and those with related autoimmune conditions.

• Better use of genetic testing: While not diagnostic on its own, HLA gene testing is helping rule out celiac when the diagnosis is uncertain, saving patients time and stress. 

These shifts reflect a growing push toward faster, more accurate diagnosis, and less delay for those living with symptoms.