Celiac Disease Screening in Short Stature Children Using Antigliadin IgA and IgG

Abstract

Objective: To assess the possibility of celiac diseasein short stature children by estimating serum level of antigliadin IgA and IgG.Method: Forty short stature children (height below 3rd centile) were screened, 18 (45%) were males and 22 (55%) were females with male/female ratio; 1:1.2.Antigliadin IgA and IgG levels were assessed by ELISA, and considered to be positive if the level of antibody ≥ 18 IU/dL. All patients had been already sent for X ray for bone age, thyroid function test, and growth hormone assessment (both basal and after stimulation). No patient on gluten-free diet. Results: Of the 40 patients, 12 patients (30%) had positive antigliadin antibody test, 3 of them (25%) had no underlying cause for short stature, while 9 (75%) had already diagnosed cause.Conclusion: Screening for celiac disease is mandatory in all short stature children.