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Coeliac disease is an immune-mediated condition characterized by chronic inflammation of the small bowel with villous atrophy driven by gluten ingestion in genetically predisposed individuals. It occurs frequently in both children and adults, affecting 1-4% of the population. The disease is associated with both gastrointestinal and extra-intestinal symptoms related to malabsorption and/or immune activation, and autoantibodies to tissue transglutaminase. Removal of gluten from the diet results in resolution of symptoms and enteropathy in the majority of patients. A good diagnostic work-up is important to avoid unnecessary restrictive diets in children. In this review on pediatric coeliac disease, we address epidemiology including predisposing environmental factors and possible preventive strategies, as well as the clinical presentation, diagnosis and follow-up. What is Known: •Primary prevention of coeliac disease is not possible; however, secondary prevention by targeting high-risk groups is recommended. •The diagnosis is safe without duodenal biopsies if specific conditions are met, also in asymptomatic children. What is New: •HLA-DQ typing is not routinely required for the diagnosis, whereas it can rule out coeliac disease if HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 are absent. •Follow-up could be improved by a more rational use of (laboratory) tests, increased intention to dietary compliance and quality of life.

The worldwide prevalence of asymptomatic coeliac disease (CD) is increasing, which is in part due to the routine screening of children with risk factors. Both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients with CD are at risk of long-term complications. The objective of this study was to compare the clinical characteristics of asymptomatic and symptomatic children at the time of CD diagnosis. A case–control study was conducted using data from a cohort of 4838 CD patients recruited from 73 centers across Spain between 2011 and 2017. A total of 468 asymptomatic patients (cases) were selected and matched by age and sex with 468 symptomatic patients (controls). Clinical data, including any reported symptoms, as well as serologic, genetic, and histopathologic data were collected. No significant differences were found between the two groups in most clinical variables, nor in the degree of intestinal lesion. However, the asymptomatic patients were taller (height z-score −0.12 (1.06) vs. −0.45 (1.19), p < 0.001) and were less likely to have anti transglutaminase IgA antibodies ≥ 10 times the upper normal limit (66.2% vs. 758.4%, p = 0.002). Among the 37.1% of asymptomatic patients who were not screened for CD due to the absence of risk factors, only 34% were truly asymptomatic, while the remaining 66% reported non-specific CD-related symptoms. Therefore, expanding CD screening to any child who undergoes a blood test could reduce the burden of care for some children, as many of those considered asymptomatic reported non-specific CD-related symptoms.

The objective of this study was to assess the association between serological markers and changes of the intestinal mucosa in children with celiac disease (CD).Clinical data from CD patients under 15 years old were collected from the participating centers in an on-line multicenter nationwide observational Spanish registry called REPAC-2 (2011-2017). Correlation between anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies (t-TGA) levels and other variables, including mucosal damage and clinical findings (symptoms, age, and gender), was assessed.A total of 2955 of 4838 patients had t-TGA and a small bowel biopsy (SBB) performed for CD diagnosis. A total of 1931 (66.2%) patients with normal IgA values had a Marsh 3b-c lesion and 1892 (64.9%) had t-TGA Immunoglobulin A (IgA) ≥ 10 times upper limit of normal (ULN). There is a statistically significant association between t-TGA IgA levels and the degree of mucosal damage ( P0.001), the higher the t-TGA IgA levels the more severe the mucosal damage. Those patients who reported symptoms had more severe mucosal damage ( P = 0.001). On the contrary, there was a negative association between age and changes of the intestinal mucosa ( P0.001). No association was found with gender. Regarding the IgA-deficient patients, 47.4% (18 cases) had t-TGA Immunoglobulin A (IgA) ≥ 10 times ULN and a Marsh 3b-c lesion was observed in 68.4% (26 patients). No statistical relation was found between t-TGA IgG levels and the changes of the intestinal mucosa, neither a relation with age, gender, or symptoms.There is a positive correlation between t-TGA IgA levels and the severity of changes of the intestinal mucosa. Such correlation was not found in IgA-deficient patients who had positive t-TGA IgG serology. The results in this group of patients support the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition recommendations about the need of performing a SBB in IgA-deficient individuals despite high t-TGA IgG levels.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to review the evidence regarding the clinical use and value of fecal calprotectin (FC) measurements in different gastrointestinal disorders in children. Methods: A literature search was conducted in the PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases until October 31, 2019. Subtopics were identified and each assigned to individual authors. Results: A total of 28 recommendations were voted on using the nominal voting technique. Recommendations are given related to sampling, measurement methods, and results interpretation. The 14 authors anonymously voted on each recommendation using a 9-point scale (1 strongly disagree to 9 fully agree). Consensus was considered achieved if at least 75% of the authors voted 6, 7, 8, or 9. Conclusions: Consensus was reached for all recommendations. Limitations for the use of FC in clinical practice include variability in extraction methodology, performance of test kits as well as the need to establish local reference ranges because of the influence of individual factors, such as age, diet, microbiota, and drugs. The main utility of FC measurement at present is in the diagnosis and monitoring of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) as well as to differentiate it from functional gastrointestinal disorders (FAPDs). FC, however, has neither utility in the diagnosis of infantile colic nor to differentiate between functional and organic constipation. A rise in FC concentration, may alert to the risk of developing necrotizing enterocolitis and help identifying gastrointestinal involvement in children with Henoch-Schonlein purpura. FC measurement is of little value in Cow's Milk Protein Allergy, coeliac disease (CD), and cystic fibrosis. FC does neither help to distinguish bacterial from viral acute gastroenteritis (AGE), nor to diagnose Helicobacter Pylori infection, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), acute appendicitis (AA), or intestinal polyps.

Reference values of fecal calprotectin (fCP) have not been convincingly established in children. We aimed to investigate fCP concentrations in a larger population of healthy children aged 4–16 years to analyze more in depth the behavior of fCP in this age range and to determine if cut-off levels could be conclusively recommended. A prospective study was conducted to investigate fCP concentrations of healthy children aged 4–16 years. In 212 healthy children, the median and 95th percentile for fCP were 18.8 mg/kg and 104.5 mg/kg, respectively. We found a statistically significant association between the 95th percentile of fCP concentrations and age (p

Over the last several decades, there has been a tendency towards a predominance of less symptomatic forms of coeliac disease (CD) and an increase in the patient age at diagnosis. This study aimed to assess the clinical presentation and diagnostic process of paediatric CD in Spain.A nationwide prospective, observational, multicentre registry of new paediatric CD cases was conducted from January 2011 to June 2017. The data regarding demographic variables, type of birth, breast-feeding history, family history of CD, symptoms, height and weight, associated conditions, serological markers, human leukocyte antigen (HLA) phenotype, and histopathological findings were collected.In total, 4838 cases (61% girls) from 73 centres were registered. The median age at diagnosis was 4 years. Gastrointestinal symptoms were detected in 71.4% of the patients, and diarrhoea was the most frequent symptom (45.9%). The most common clinical presentation was the classical form (65.1%) whereas 9.8% ofthe patients were asymptomatic. There was a trend towards an increase in the age at diagnosis, proportion of asymptomatic CD cases, and usage of anti-deamidated gliadin peptide antibodies and HLA typing for CD diagnosis. There was, however, a decreasing trend in the proportion of patients undergoing biopsies. Some of these significant trend changes may reflect the effects of the 2012 ESPGHAN diagnosis guidelines.Paediatric CD in Spain is evolving in the same direction as in the rest of Europe, although classical CD remains the most common presentation form, and the age at diagnosis remains relatively low.

A 15-year-old boy was admitted to the hospital due to ataxia, drowsiness and bradypsychia. He was known to have a short bowel syndrome Initial venous blood gases revealed a metabolic acidosis with a high anion gap of 24 mmol/L and normal L-lactate. He improved with fasting and fluids and was discharged with oral metronidazole. 2 weeks later he was admitted again with similar symptoms. A specific study of D-Lactic acidosis was carried out, confirming the diagnosis. D-lactic acidosis is an uncommon complication of short bowel syndrome. It occurs as a consequence of the metabolism of unabsorbed carbohydrates. The symptoms are mainly neurological. Limiting the dietary carbohydrates is useful to avoid recurrences. Poorly absorbable antibiotics are used but with varying results. Surgery may be an option if medical treatment fails. Probiotics might be useful to avoid symthoms recurrence.

Evaluating the usefulness of intestinal anti-transglutaminase IgA (anti-TG2 IgA) deposits detection as a complementary or decision-supporting tool in the diagnosis of celiac disease (CD) in patients with low degree of enteropathy. Small intestinal biopsies (SIB) were performed from 2008 to 2017 in patients on suspicion of CD (positive CD serology and/or symptoms) referred to our Pediatric Gastroenterology Unit. We determined anti-TG2 IgA deposits by using double immunofluorescence in all the patients in whom Marsh 0 or Marsh 1 was detected in the conventional histological study and in a random selection of patients with clearly positive serology and histological Marsh 2-3 lesion. Seventy-five pediatric patients were split into three groups according to the final diagnosis: (i) 13 children with a Marsh 0 or 1, negative CD serology and final non-CD diagnosis; none presented intestinal anti-TG2 IgA deposits; (ii) 15 potential CD cases (Marsh 0 or 1 and CD-associated antibodies), detecting anti-TG2 IgA deposits in 12; on follow-up, another biopsy performed in 11/15 showed villi atrophy in seven and a Marsh 2 lesion in two of them, patients being finally diagnosed as CD cases; and (iii) 47 children with Marsh 2-3 histological lesion and final CD diagnosis; all of them had intestinal anti-TG2 IgA deposits. Anti-TG2 deposits are a useful complementary tool for CD diagnosis in pediatric population with digestive pathologies suggestive of CD. It is especially helpful in those with low-grade lesion, in which anti-TG2 deposits are predictive of the development of more severe lesions on follow-up.

Adequate follow-up in celiac disease is important to improve dietary compliance and treat disease-related symptoms and possible complications. However, data on the follow-up of celiac children is scarce. We aimed to assess current pediatric celiac follow-up practices across Europe. Pediatricians and pediatric gastroenterologists from 35 countries in Europe, Israel, Turkey, and Russia completed an anonymous survey which comprised a 52-item questionnaire developed by the ESPGHAN Special Interest Group on Celiac Disease. A total of 911 physicians, the majority of whom exclusively worked in pediatric care (83%) and academic institutions (60%), completed the questionnaire. Mean age and mean experience with celiac care were 48.7 years (± 10.6) and 15.7 years (± 9.9), respectively. The vast majority (= 92%) always assessed anthropometry, dietary adherence, and tissue-transglutaminase IgA-antibodies at every visit, with the first visit being between 3 and 6 months after diagnosis. Other parameters (% always tested) were as follows: complete blood count (60%), iron status (48%), liver enzymes (42%), thyroid function (38%), and vitamin D (26%). Quality of life was never assessed by 35% of the responding physicians. Transition to adult care was mostly completed via a written transition report (37%) or no formal transition at all (27%).Conclusions: Follow-up of celiac children and adolescents in Europe may be improved, especially regarding a more rational use of (laboratory) tests, dietary and QoL assessment, and transition to adult care. Evidence-based advice from international scientific societies is needed. What is Known: • Follow-up in celiac disease is important to treat disease-related symptoms, improve dietary compliance, and prevent possible complications. • There is a lack of consensus about the appropriate follow-up. What is New: • Almost all European physicians assess anthropometry, tissue-transglutaminase IgA-antibodies, and dietary adherence at every visit, but there are large variations in other follow-up aspects. • Follow-up could be improved by a more rational use of (laboratory) tests, increased intention to dietary compliance, and quality of life together with transition programs to adult care.

The association between low bone mineral density (BMD) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is already known. Our study, performed in Spanish pediatric IBD patients at diagnosis onset, shows that low BMD already existed at the beginning of the disease. Low weight and height are also associated with low BMD and have to be considered as risk factors. Introduction Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been reported to be associated, even at disease onset, with low bone mass. The aim of this study was to know the bone mineral density (BMD) status in the IBD pediatric population of group of Spanish children, at the time of diagnosis. Material and methods Retrospective review of patients' records from pediatric IBD patients diagnosed in our unit in the last 10 years. BMD was measured at the time of diagnosis and was expressed by Z-score. Results Fifty-seven patients were included. Sixty-one percent were male and 47.4% had Crohn's disease (CD). Average age was 11.18 (SD 2.24) years old. Median BMD Z-score was - 0.30 (interquartile range: - 1.10 to + 0.10). Low BMD, defined as Z-score ≤ - 2SD, was present in 5% of patients, but there was no single patient with osteoporosis. There were no differences in BMD between Ulcerative Colitis (UC) and CD. Statistical differences appeared between healthy Spanish pediatric population and our IBD cohort, these having lower BMD for the same age and gender. A linear regression analysis showed a significant association between BMD Z-score and patient´s weight and height Z-score with a p values of 0.001 and 0.048, respectively. Conclusions Suboptimal bone density is present at diagnosis in Spanish pediatric patients with IBD. There is no difference in BMD between patients with CD and UC. Lower weight and height are associated with a lower BMD; thus these data at IBD diagnosis should be considered as a risk factor for bone disease in the pediatric population.

Our aim is to assess the efficacy of fecal calprotectin (fCP) and fecal eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (fEDN) as diagnostic markers of cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA) and for monitoring the infants’ response to a non-IgE mediated cow’s milk protein (CMP)-free diet. We prospectively recruited infants aged 0 to 9 months. Stool samples were taken from 30 infants with CMPA, 19 with mild functional gastrointestinal disorders, 28 healthy infants, and 28 children who presented mild infections. Despite the fact that levels of fCP and fEDN in CMPA infants were higher than in healthy infants at month 0, differences for both parameters did not reach statistical significance (p-value 0.119 and 0.506). After 1 month of an elimination diet, no statistically significant differences in fCP with basal levels were found (p-values 0.184) in the CMPA group. We found a high variability in the fCP and fEDN levels of young infants, and discrepancies in individual behavior of these markers after a CMP-free diet was started. It seems that neither fCP nor fEDN levels are helpful to discriminate between healthy infants and those with signs or symptoms related to non-IgE-mediated CMPA. Additionally, it is debatable if on an individual basis, fCP or fEDN levels could be used for clinical follow-up and dietary compliance monitoring. However, prospective studies with larger populations are needed to draw robust conclusions.

Vedolizumab is a humanised monoclonal antibody that binds to integrin alpha 4 beta 7 expressed in T-cells, inhibiting its binding to the mucosal addressin cell adhesion molecule-1 (MAdCAM-1), which is specifically expressed in the small intestine and colon, playing a fundamental role in T-cell migration to the gastrointestinal tract. Vedolizumab has been shown to be effective in treating adults with inflammatory bowel disease; however, efficacy data for paediatric use are scarce. The objective of the present study was to assess the effectiveness and safety of vedolizumab for inducing and maintaining clinical remission in children with inflammatory bowel disease. We conducted a retrospective multicentre study of patients younger than 18 years with inflammatory bowel disease refractory to anti-tumour necrosis factor alpha (anti-TNF-alpha) drugs, who underwent treatment with vedolizumab. Clinical remission was defined as a score < 10 points in the activity indices. We included 42 patients, 22 of whom were male (52.3%), with a median age of 13.1 years (IQR 10.2-14.2) at the start of treatment. Of the 42 patients, 14 (33.3%) had Crohn's disease (CD) and 28 (66.7%) had ulcerative colitis (UC). At the start of treatment with vedolizumab, the Paediatric Crohn's Disease Activity Index was 36 (IQR 24-40) and the Paediatric Ulcerative Colitis Activity Index was 47 (IQR 25-65). All of them had received prior treatment with anti-TNF and 3 patients ustekinumab. At week 14, 69% of the patients responded to the treatment (57.1% of those with UC and 75% of those with UC; p=0.238), and 52.4% achieved remission (35.7% with CD and 60.7% with UC; p=0.126). At 30 weeks, the response rate was 66.7% (46.2% and 78.3% for CD and UC, respectively; p=0.049), and 52.8% achieved remission (30.8% and 65.2% for CD and UC, respectively; p=0.047). Among the patients with remission at week 14, 80% of the patients with CD and 84.5% of those with UC maintained the remission at 52 weeks. Adverse effects were uncommon and mild. Three patients (7.1%) presented headaches, 1 presented alopecia, 1 presented anaemia and 1 presented dermatitis. Conclusion: The results show that treatment with vedolizumab is a safe and effective option for achieving clinical remission in paediatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease with primary failure or loss of response to other treatments, especially in UC. What is Known: Vedolizumab is effective in inducing and maintaining remission in adult patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Most studies and clinical trials have been performed on adult populations, and there is currently no indication for paediatric populations. What is New: Children with inflammatory bowel disease refractory to anti-TNF presented higher clinical emission rates than those published for adults. There are few publications of this magnitude on paediatric populations treated with vedolizumab and with long-term follow-up (52 weeks).

Background: small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a heterogeneous condition with nonspecific symptoms. This study aimed to report its management by pediatric gastroenterologists in Spain. Methods: a descriptive study was performed by means of a survey sent to 184 active members of the Spanish Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (SEGHNP). Results: one hundred and forty-eight responses (80.4 %) were received. Forty-four patients had no predisposing condition, 31.1 % used antibiotics followed by probiotics, 33.1 % antibiotherapy concomitant with probiotics, 24.3 % only antibiotics and 10.8 % only probiotics. The diagnosis was established via clinical parameters in 73.8 % of participants and the therapeutic response was checked only by clinical data in 90 %. Conclusions: there is high variability in the management of SIBO among pediatric population in Spain.

The association between low bone mineral density (BMD) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is already known. Our study, performed in Spanish pediatric IBD patients at diagnosis onset, shows that low BMD already existed at the beginning of the disease. Low weight and height are also associated with low BMD and have to be considered as risk factors.Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been reported to be associated, even at disease onset, with low bone mass. The aim of this study was to know the bone mineral density (BMD) status in the IBD pediatric population of group of Spanish children, at the time of diagnosis.Retrospective review of patients' records from pediatric IBD patients diagnosed in our unit in the last 10 years. BMD was measured at the time of diagnosis and was expressed by Z-score.Fifty-seven patients were included. Sixty-one percent were male and 47.4% had Crohn's disease (CD). Average age was 11.18 (SD 2.24) years old. Median BMD Z-score was - 0.30 (interquartile range: - 1.10 to + 0.10). Low BMD, defined as Z-score ≤ - 2SD, was present in 5% of patients, but there was no single patient with osteoporosis. There were no differences in BMD between Ulcerative Colitis (UC) and CD. Statistical differences appeared between healthy Spanish pediatric population and our IBD cohort, these having lower BMD for the same age and gender. A linear regression analysis showed a significant association between BMD Z-score and patient´s weight and height Z-score with a p values of 0.001 and 0.048, respectively.Suboptimal bone density is present at diagnosis in Spanish pediatric patients with IBD. There is no difference in BMD between patients with CD and UC. Lower weight and height are associated with a lower BMD; thus these data at IBD diagnosis should be considered as a risk factor for bone disease in the pediatric population.

In celiac disease (CD) there is a need for precise and non-invasive tools to assess dietary compliance to the gluten-free diet (GFD). Our aim is to evaluate the efficacy of the detection of gluten immunogenic peptides (GIP) in feces, to monitor in real life, the adherence to GFD in pediatric patients with CD. A cross-sectional, prospective study was conducted. Fecal samples from CD children were analyzed by a rapid immunochromatographic (IC) test and by an ELISA method, both based on the antigliadin 33-mer monoclonal antibody. Group 1 comprises 43 children on a GFD. According to the food records (FR), 39/43 patients were compliant with the GFD and gluten consumption was recorded in 4. GIP were detected in 15/43 individuals by the ELISA method and also in 7 by IC strips. Group 2: comprise 18 children at CD diagnosis; GIP levels decreased over time (p

Coeliac disease is a systemic immune-mediated disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten, which is given in genetically predisposed subjects. It manifests with a wide variety of clinical symptoms, specific serological markers, HLA-DQ2/DQ8 haplotype, and enteropathy. The criteria followed for this have usually been those established by the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) since 1969. These criteria have advanced from the need of several intestinal biopsies to, thanks to the development of serological tests of high sensitivity and specificity, considering the enteropathy as one more element in this diagnosis and makes it possible to perform a diagnosis without the need of an intestinal biopsy in certain circumstances. The updated review of the 2012 criteria in 2019 provides new evidence on some aspects, such as the role of HLA, the diagnosis of asymptomatic patients, and the effectiveness of the serological markers. These aspects are reviewed in detail, with the aim of facilitating the rational application of the new 2020 criteria at all care levels. In this sense, Paediatric Primary Care is fundamental in the search for active cases and to perform a first serological study, being recommended that the diagnosis is always establishedby a Paediatric Gastroenterologist, La enfermedad celíaca es un proceso sistémico de carácter inmunológico, desen-cadenado por el consumo de gluten, que se da en sujetos genéticamente predispuestos. Se expresa con una gran variedad de síntomas clínicos, marcadores serológicos específicos, hap-lotipo HLA-DQ2/DQ8 y enteropatía. El tratamiento consiste en eliminar de por vida el gluten de la dieta, por lo que es fundamental un diagnóstico adecuado. Los criterios seguidos para ello han sido habitualmente los establecidos por la European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) desde 1969. Estos criterios han ido evolucionando desde la necesidad de varias biopsias intestinales para el diagnóstico a, gracias al desarrollo de pruebas serológicas de alta sensibilidad y especificidad, considerar la enteropatía como un elemento más en este diagnóstico y posibilitar en determinadas circunstancias realizarlo sin necesidad de biopsia intestinal. La revisión actualizada en 2019 de los criterios 2012 aporta nueva evidencia sobre algunos aspectos, como el papel del HLA, el diagnóstico de los pacientes asintomáticos y la eficacia de los marcadores serológicos. Estos aspectos se revisan en detalle,con el objetivo de facilitar la aplicación de los nuevos criterios 2020 de una forma racional en todos los niveles asistenciales. En este sentido el pediatra de Atención Primaria es fundamental para la búsqueda activa de casos y realizar un primer estudio serológico, recomendándose que el diagnóstico sea siempre establecido por un pediatra gastroenterólogo

Background and Aims: Diagnostic delay (DD) is especially relevant in children with inflammatory bowel disease, leading to potential complications. We examined the intervals and factors for DD in the pediatric population of Spain. Methods: We conducted a multicentric prospective study, including 149 pediatric inflammatory bowel disease patients, obtaining clinical, anthropometric, and biochemical data. Time to diagnosis (TD) was divided into several intervals to identify those where the DD was longer and find the variables that prolonged those intervals. Missed opportunities for diagnosis (MODs) were also identified. Results: Overall TD was 4.4 months (interquartile range [IQR] 2.6-10.4), being significantly higher in Crohn's disease (CD) than in ulcerative colitis (UC) (6.3 [IQR 3.3-12.3] vs. 3 [IQR 1.6-5.6] months, p = 0.0001). Time from the visit to the first physician until referral to a pediatric gastroenterologist was the main contributor to TD (2.4 months [IQR 1.03-7.17] in CD vs. 0.83 months [IQR 0.30-2.50] in UC, p = 0.0001). One hundred and ten patients (78.3%) visited more than one physician (29.9% to 4 or more), and 16.3% visited the same physician more than six times before being assessed by the pediatric gastroenterologist. The number of MODs was significantly higher in CD than that in UC patients: 4 MODs (IQR 2-7) vs. 2 MODs ([IQR 1-5], p = 0.003). Referral by pediatricians from hospital care allowed earlier IBD diagnosis (odds ratio 3.2 [95% confidence interval 1.1-8.9], p = 0.025). Conclusions: TD and DD were significantly higher in CD than those in UC. IBD patients (especially those with CD) undergo a large number of medical visits until the final diagnosis.

Metabolic alkalosis is uncommon in infancy. Cystic fibrosis (CF) patients can develop dehydration because of sweat salt or gastrointestinal losses; with the correct salt supplementation, the electrolyte alterations can be reversed. Here, we present a CF patient with recurrent metabolic alkalosis, initially oriented as pseudo-Bartter's syndrome. However, despite accurate treatment, patient needed daily intravenous fluids to maintain homeostasis. An extended study was made, including a urine study that could rule out Bartter's diagnosis. Finally, after a complementary test that included electrolyte stools study and genetic analysis, congenital chloride diarrhea could be diagnosed.

Resumen: Introducción: Los anticuerpos antitransglutaminasa (ATG) poseen alta especificidad para el diagnóstico de enfermedad celíaca (EC). Sin embargo, se han descrito anticuerpos ATG positivos en pacientes no celíacos. Objetivo: Valorar la presencia de anticuerpos ATG positivos no relacionados con la ingesta de gluten. Pacientes y métodos: Revisión retrospectiva de historias clínicas y seguimiento de pacientes con sospecha de EC y con un comportamiento serológico atípico, es decir, anticuerpos ATG positivos a pesar de una dieta sin gluten y disminución de anticuerpos ATG tomando gluten. Resultados: Se incluyeron 9 casos. De ellos, 5 casos tenían afectación histológica Marsh 3 en la biopsia inicial y diagnóstico de EC (grupo A). Se retiró el gluten de la dieta y se retiraron las proteínas de leche de vaca (PLV) por la afectación nutricional. Al reintroducir las PLV aumentaron los ATG y al retirarlas se volvieron a normalizar. Los otros 4 pacientes presentaban una biopsia inicial normal (grupo B): en estos no se retiró el gluten, pero sí las PLV por sospecha de alergia no IgE mediada. Los síntomas desaparecieron y se normalizaron los ATG al retirar las PLV manteniendo dieta con gluten. Todos presentan el haplotipo de susceptibilidad para EC. Conclusiones: En algunos celíacos, la reintroducción de PLV en la dieta tras un período de exclusión induce un aumento de los anticuerpos ATG IgA. Si se han descartado transgresiones con gluten, las PLV pueden causar esta respuesta inmune. Hemos observado también esta respuesta en pacientes con alergia no IgE, mediada por las PLV, portadores del haplotipo de susceptibilidad HLA DQ2/DQ8. Abstract: Introduction: Anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies (tTG) have high specificity for coeliac disease (CD). However, positive anti-tTG antibodies have been described in non-coeliac patients.Aim To assess positive anti-tTG antibodies not related to gluten intake. Patients and methods: Retrospective review and follow up conducted on patients with suspected CD (increase anti-tTG levels and gastrointestinal symptoms) but with atypical serology results, positive anti-tTG with gluten free diet and a decrease in anti-tTG levels despite gluten intake. Results: A total of 9 cases were reviewed in which 5 cases had Marsh 3 involvement in the initial biopsy, and were diagnosed with CD (Group A). They began a gluten free diet and also a cow's milk protein (CMP) free diet because of their nutritional status. When CMP was re-introduced, anti-tTG increased, and returned to normal after the CMP was withdrawn again. The other 4 patients had a normal initial biopsy (Group B). Gluten was not removed from their diet, but they started a CMP free diet because a non IgE mediated CMP allergy was suspected. Symptoms disappeared, and anti-tTG was normal after CMP free diet with gluten intake. All the patients had susceptibility haplotype HLA DQ2/DQ8. Conclusions: CMP ingestion after an exclusion diet can induce an increase in anti-tTG in some coeliac subjects. CMP can produce this immune response if there were no gluten transgressions. This response has also been observed in non-IgE mediated CMP allergy patients with the susceptibility haplotype HLA DQ2/DQ8.

Objectives: In young children, the use of fecal calprotectin (fCP) as a biomarker is limited because reference values have not been widely accepted up to now. Moreover, reference values for fecal eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (fEDN) in children have not been established. The aim of the present study was to investigate fCP and fEDN levels in young healthy children to establish reference values. Methods: Stool samples were obtained from healthy children ages 0 to 12 years. fCP and fEDN levels were analyzed using the EliA Calprotectin 2 assay (Phadia AB) and a novel research assay (on the ImmunoCAP platform), respectively. Results: In the 174 included children (87 boys), 95th Percentile values ranged from 1519 mg/kg at 0 months to 54.4 mg/kg at 144 months for fCP and from 9.9 mg/kg at 0 months to 0.2 mg/kg at 144 months for fEDN. There was a statistically significant association between age and fCP concentrations (P1 to 4 years, and 54.4 and 0.2mg/kg for >4 to 12 years. Discussion: By using an improved analytical method, we have confirmed that young healthy children have higher fCP concentrations than healthy adults. We, for the first time, report reference values for fEDN concentrations in a pediatric population. The proposed nomograms and reference values for fCP and fEDN are aimed at facilitating the applicability of biomarkers for both neutrophil- and eosinophil-mediated intestinal inflammation in children in clinical practice.

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of anti-endomysium antibodies (EMA) as a serological marker for celiac disease (CD) diagnosis in a pediatric population. A retrospective study of pediatric patients who underwent a CD serological markers study: EMA and anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies (anti-TG2). Clinical symptomatology, degree of histological lesion, human leukocyte antigen (HLA) haplotype compatible with CD (HLA DQ2 and/or DQ8), and final diagnosis were taken into account. We included 445 patients who were classified in two groups according to the final diagnosis. Group 1: 232 children with CD, 91.4% of whom exhibited small intestinal villous atrophy, 228 being EMA-positive and four EMA-negative. Group 2: 213 children with a non-CD diagnosis, 212 EMA negative and one EMA positive. Both antibodies, EMA and anti-TG2, reached similar sensitivities, 98% and 99% respectively, while EMA had a higher specificity (99%) than anti-TG2 (93%). By using both markers combined, compared to using anti-TG2 alone, 5.7% of patients are better diagnosed. However, when we compare the efficacy of EMA and anti-TG2 in asymptomatic and symptomatic patients, the sensitivity of EMA is 98% irrespective of symptoms, thus higher than for anti-TG2 &ge, 10 &times, upper limit of normal (ULN) (respectively 77% and 84%). Our results support the use of EMA to increase CD diagnostic accuracy in a non-biopsy approach, especially in asymptomatic children.

Background/Objectives Gluten-free diet is the lifelong therapy for patients with coeliac disease. A wide range of gluten-free products (GFP) is available, which mimics the characteristics of their gluten-containing counterparts (GCC). The aim of this study was to compare the macronutrient and dietary fibre composition of GFP and GCC currently available in Spain. Subjects/Methods A cross-sectional study analysing the nutritional differences between 621 GFP and 600 GCC based on labelling information was conducted. Food items were categorized in one of 14 food groups. The first six ingredients were noted for each food item. A linear regression model was used to explain differences in nutritional composition between GFP and GCC and three independent models were created for bread, pasta and biscuits. Results Results showed that GCC had higher protein content than GFP, especially in flour, bread, pasta and pizza. Bread had higher total and saturated fat contents in the GFP in which palm oil was the main fat used. Flours and starchy ingredients used in GFP formulation were mainly rice and corn flours and corn starch, and palm oil was the most commonly used fat. Conclusions In conclusion, GFP cannot currently be considered as equivalent substitutes for their GCC. The reformulation of the GFP with more healthy ingredients and ingredients is encouraged, using a healthy oil, pseudocereals and whole flour.

Objectives: A large retrospective multicentre study was conducted in Spain to evaluate the efficiency of the new European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) criteria for the diagnosis of coeliac disease (CD). Methods: The study protocol was approved by the ethics committee of Hospital Universitari i Politecnic La Fe (Valencia, Spain). The present study included 2177 children (ages 0.6-15.9 years) with small bowel biopsy (SBB) performed for diagnostic purposes (from 2000 to 2009) and with a minimum 2-year follow-up after biopsy. Results: CD was diagnosed in 2126 patients (97.5%) and excluded in 51 (2.5%). Tissue transglutaminase antibodies (TG2A), anti-endomysial antibodies (EMA), and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) were reported in 751 patients, 640 symptomatic and 111 asymptomatic. TG2A levels >10 times the upper limit of normal, plus positive EMA and HLA DQ2 and/or DQ8 haplotypes, were found in 336 symptomatic patients, all of them with final diagnosis of CD. In 65 of 69 asymptomatic patients, 65 had confirmed CD and 4 did not have CD. According to the 2012 ESPGHAN guidelines, SBB may have been omitted in 52% of the symptomatic patients with CD with serologic and HLA available data. Gluten challenge was performed in 158 children, 75 of them

RESUMEN Objetivo: evaluar la influencia del consumo de gluten en el desarrollo de enfermedad celiaca y describir la historia natural de la misma, en una cohorte española de riesgo genético participante en el estudio Europeo PreventCD. Métodos: estudio prospectivo multicéntrico doble ciego, incluyendo 225 niños, controlados desde el nacimiento, en tres centros de Madrid, Reus y Valencia, todos HLA-DQ2/HLA-DQ8 positivos y con un familiar de primer grado con enfermedad celiaca. Entre cuatro y diez meses, la ingesta de gluten estaba pautada por protocolo. Entre los 11-36 meses, la ingesta fue libre, siendo cuantificada prospectivamente mediante registros dietéticos. Se realizaron visitas clínicas y análisis de anticuerpos específicos de enfermedad celiaca periódicamente. Resultados: se diagnosticaron 26 casos, todos con biopsia y serología positiva, 21 con síntomas gastrointestinales y cinco asintomáticos. Se analizaron 2.565 registros que mostraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p < 0,001) en el consumo de gluten entre los tres centros, pero no entre niños celiacos y no celiacos (p = 0,025). El genotipo HLA-DQ2.5/DQ2.5 y DQ2.5/DQ2.2 presentó un riesgo relativo de 4,7 (IC 95%: 0,80-27,55; p = 0,08), superior al resto de genotipos, y el género femenino presentó un riesgo relativo cinco veces superior al masculino. Conclusiones: ni la cantidad de gluten consumida entre los 11 y los 36 meses ni la duración de la lactancia son factores de riesgo de desarrollo de EC en la población española, siendo el genotipo HLA y el sexo los factores más relevantes asociados a la misma. En este grupo de riesgo, la mayoría de casos debutaron antes de los dos años, encontrándose a esta temprana edad pacientes con escasa expresividad clínica. ABSTRACT Aim: to evaluate the influence of gluten consumption on celiac disease development and to describe its natural history in the Spanish cohort of the European PreventCD study. Methods: prospective multi-center double blind study of 225 children that were followed up from birth. All cases were HLA-DQ2/HLA-DQ8 positive with a 1st degree relative with celiac disease and were followed up in three centers from Madrid, Reus and Valencia. Gluten intake was determined between four and ten months according to the protocol. Gluten intake was ad libitum between eleven and 36 months and was prospectively quantified by means of dietary records. Clinical visits and specific antibody analysis for celiac disease were performed periodically. Results: twenty-six cases were diagnosed, all had a positive biopsy and serology; 21 had gastrointestinal symptoms and five were asymptomatic. In addition, 2,565 food records were analyzed and statistically significant differences (p < 0.001) were found with regard to gluten consumption among the three centers, although not between celiac and non-celiac children (p = 0.025). The HLA-DQ2.5/DQ2.5 and DQ2.5/DQ2.2 genotypes had a relative risk of 4.7 (95% CI: 0.80-27.55; p = 0.08), which was higher than for the rest of genotypes. Female gender also had a relative risk that was five times higher than that for males. Conclusions: the amount of gluten intake between 11 and 36 months or the duration of breast feeding were not risk factors for the development of CD in the Spanish population. The HLA genotype and gender were the most relevant associated factors. In this at-risk group, the disease presented before two years of age in the majority of the cases with a weak clinical expression.

8 páginas, 1 figura, 2 tablas, Celiac disease (CD) is an immune-mediated enteropathy involving genetic and environmental factors, whose interaction influences disease risk. The intestinal microbiota, including viruses and bacteria, could play a role in the pathological process leading to gluten intolerance. In this study, we investigated the prevalence of pathogens in the intestinal microbiota of infants at familial risk of developing CD. We included 127 full-term newborns with at least one first-degree relative with CD. Infants were classified according to milk-feeding practice (breastfeeding or formula feeding) and HLA-DQ genotype (low, intermediate or high genetic risk). The prevalence of pathogenic bacteria and viruses was assessed in the faeces of the infants at 7 days, 1 month and 4 months of age. The prevalence of Clostridium perfringens was higher in formula-fed infants than in breast-fed over the study period, and that of C. difficile at 4 months. Among breastfed infants, a higher prevalence of enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) was found in infants with the highest genetic risk compared either to those with a low or intermediate risk. Among formula-fed infants, a higher prevalence of ETEC was also found in infants with a high genetic risk compared to those of intermediate risk. Our results show that specific factors, such as formula feeding and the HLA-DQ2 genotype, previously linked to a higher risk of developing CD, influence the presence of pathogenic bacteria differently in the intestinal microbiota in early life. Further studies are warranted to establish whether these associations are related to CD onset later in life., This work was supported by grants AGL2011-25169, AGL2014-52101-P and AGL2007-66126-C03-03/ALI (YS and FP) from the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness (MINECO). The scholarship to MO from CSIC (JAEpre) and the contract to ABP from the European Union's Seventh Framework Program under the grant agreement no 613979 (MyNewGut) are also fully acknowledged.

Background: there are no effective methods to easily control the correct adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD) in celiac disease (CD) patients. Aim: to assess the sensitivity and specificity of a rapid immunochromatographic (IC) test that detects gluten immunogenic peptides (GIP) in feces, compared to an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Methods: fecal samples from healthy infants were analyzed by a rapid IC test and ELISA, both methods are based on the anti-gliadin 33-mer monoclonal antibody. Group 1 included infants aged from 6 to 24 months, with an unrestricted consumption of gluten containing cereals. Group 2 (negative controls) was comprised of infants aged from 0 to 6 months, either breastfed or formula fed who had never ingested gluten. Results: in group 1 (n = 34), all infants had positive values by ELISA, the mean was 13.13 mu gGIP/g (range 0.56-46.79). The IC test was negative in 5/20 cases and there was a significant correlation (p=0.006) between the mean daily gluten intake and GIP in feces. In group 2 (n = 20), all the samples were negative by both methods. Moreover, the Kappa Fleiss concordance index (Kappa = 0.79 C195% [0.616, 0.965]) indicated a moderate concordance between both methods. Conclusions: according to our results, both methods are highly specific. However, the ELISA test had a higher sensitivity. Although we found a significant correlation between the amount of gluten consumed and GIP recovery in feces, further studies are needed to clarify the impact of individual confounding factors in GIP recovery.

Introduction: Anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies (tTG) have high specificity for coeliac disease (CD). However, positive anti-tTG antibodies have been described in non-coeliac patients. Aim: To assess positive anti-tTG antibodies not related to gluten intake. Patients and methods: Retrospective review and follow up conducted on patients with suspected CD (increase anti-tTG levels and gastrointestinal symptoms) but with atypical serology results, positive anti-tTG with gluten free diet and a decrease in anti-tTG levels despite gluten intake. Results: A total of 9 cases were reviewed in which 5 cases had Marsh 3 involvement in the initial biopsy, and were diagnosed with CD (Group A). They began a gluten free diet and also a cow's milk protein (CMP) free diet because of their nutritional status. When CMP was re-introduced, anti-tTG increased, and returned to normal after the CMP was withdrawn again. The other 4 patients had a normal initial biopsy (Group B). Gluten was not removed from their diet, but they started a CMP free diet because a non IgE mediated CMP allergy was suspected. Symptoms disappeared, and anti-tTG was normal after CMP free diet with gluten intake. All the patients had susceptibility haplotype HLA DQ2/DQ8. Conclusions: CMP ingestion after an exclusion diet can induce an increase in anti-tTG in some coeliac subjects. CMP can produce this immune response if there were no gluten transgressions. This response has also been observed in non-IgE mediated CMP allergy patients with the susceptibility haplotype HLA DQ2/DQ8. Resumen: Introducción: Los anticuerpos antitransglutaminasa (ATG) poseen alta especificidad para el diagnóstico de enfermedad celíaca (EC). Sin embargo, se han descrito anticuerpos ATG positivos en pacientes no celíacos. Objetivo: Valorar la presencia de anticuerpos ATG positivos no relacionados con la ingesta de gluten. Pacientes y métodos: Revisión retrospectiva de historias clínicas y seguimiento de pacientes con sospecha de EC y con un comportamiento serológico atípico, es decir, anticuerpos ATG positivos a pesar de una dieta sin gluten y disminución de anticuerpos ATG tomando gluten. Resultados: Se incluyeron 9 casos. De ellos, 5 casos tenían afectación histológica Marsh 3 en la biopsia inicial y diagnóstico de EC (grupo A). Se retiró el gluten de la dieta y se retiraron las proteínas de leche de vaca (PLV) por la afectación nutricional. Al reintroducir las PLV aumentaron los ATG y al retirarlas se volvieron a normalizar. Los otros 4 pacientes presentaban una biopsia inicial normal (grupo B): en estos no se retiró el gluten, pero sí las PLV por sospecha de alergia no IgE mediada. Los síntomas desaparecieron y se normalizaron los ATG al retirar las PLV manteniendo dieta con gluten. Todos presentan el haplotipo de susceptibilidad para EC. Conclusiones: En algunos celíacos, la reintroducción de PLV en la dieta tras un período de exclusión induce un aumento de los anticuerpos ATG IgA. Si se han descartado transgresiones con gluten, las PLV pueden causar esta respuesta inmune. Hemos observado también esta respuesta en pacientes con alergia no IgE, mediada por las PLV, portadores del haplotipo de susceptibilidad HLA DQ2/DQ8.

Background & Aims The guidelines of the European Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition allow for diagnosis of celiac disease without biopsies in children with symptoms and levels of immunoglobulin A against tissue-transglutaminase (TGA-IgA) 10-fold or more the upper limit of normal (ULN), confirmed by detection of endomysium antibodies (EMA) and positivity for HLA-DQ2/DQ8. We performed a large, international prospective study to validate this approach. Methods We collected data from consecutive pediatric patients (18 years or younger) on a gluten-containing diet who tested positive for TGA-IgA from November 2011 through May 2014, seen at 33 pediatric gastroenterology units in 21 countries. Local centers recorded symptoms; measurements of total IgA, TGA, and EMA; and histopathology findings from duodenal biopsies. Children were considered to have malabsorption if they had chronic diarrhea, weight loss (or insufficient gain), growth failure, or anemia. We directly compared central findings from 16 antibody tests (8 for TGA-IgA, 1 for TGA-IgG, 6 for IgG against deamidated gliadin peptides, and 1 for EMA, from 5 different manufacturers), 2 HLA-DQ2/DQ8 tests from 2 manufacturers, and histopathology findings from the reference pathologist. Final diagnoses were based on local and central results. If all local and central results were concordant for celiac disease, cases were classified as proven celiac disease. Patients with only a low level of TGA-IgA (threefold or less the ULN) but no other results indicating celiac disease were classified as no celiac disease. Central histo-morphometry analyses were performed on all other biopsies and cases were carefully reviewed in a blinded manner. Inconclusive cases were regarded as not having celiac disease for calculation of diagnostic accuracy. The primary aim was to determine whether the nonbiopsy approach identifies children with celiac disease with a positive predictive value (PPV) above 99% in clinical practice. Secondary aims included comparing performance of different serological tests and to determine whether the suggested criteria can be simplified. Results Of 803 children recruited for the study, 96 were excluded due to incomplete data, low level of IgA, or poor-quality biopsies. In the remaining 707 children (65.1% girls; median age, 6.2 years), 645 were diagnosed with celiac disease, 46 were found not to have celiac disease, and 16 had inconclusive results. Findings from local laboratories of TGA-IgA 10-fold or more the ULN, a positive result from the test for EMA, and any symptom identified children with celiac disease (n = 399) with a PPV of 99.75 (95% confidence interval [CI], 98.61–99.99); the PPV was 100.00 (95% CI, 98.68–100.00) when only malabsorption symptoms were used instead of any symptom (n = 278). Inclusion of HLA analyses did not increase accuracy. Findings from central laboratories differed greatly for patients with lower levels of antibodies, but when levels of TGA-IgA were 10-fold or more the ULN, PPVs ranged from 99.63 (95% CI, 98.67–99.96) to 100.00 (95% CI, 99.23–100.00). Conclusions Children can be accurately diagnosed with celiac disease without biopsy analysis. Diagnosis based on level of TGA-IgA 10-fold or more the ULN, a positive result from the EMA tests in a second blood sample, and the presence of at least 1 symptom could avoid risks and costs of endoscopy for more than half the children with celiac disease worldwide. HLA analysis is not required for accurate diagnosis. Clinical Trial Registration no: DRKS00003555.

Background The need for an early and accurate diagnosis in celiac disease (CD) has focused attention on new diagnostic approaches, based on the efficiency of serological markers and the high negative predictive value of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) non-DQ2/8. Methods We performed a retrospective review of all of the patients suspected of having CD who had undergone a small bowel biopsy in our gastroenterology unit. All symptomatic children with serological marker at time of biopsy (immunoglobulin A-tissue transglutaminase antibody, endomysial antibody, and HLA genotype) were included. The triple test (TT) was positive if immunoglobulin A-tissue transglutaminase antibody was 10 times the upper limit of normal, plus positive endomysial antibody plus human leukocyte antigen-DQ2/DQ8. Results A total of 150 patients met the inclusion criteria and were enrolled in the study. One hundred sixteen were positive for the TT; 113 of 116 (97.4%) had a Marsh 2/3 histological lesion and had been considered to have CD. Thus, positive predictive value of the TT was 97.4%. The other 3 cases (2.6%) had Marsh 0/1 lesion, so we consider them to be false-positives for the TT; however, on follow-up, all 3 children developed histological damage after a gluten challenge. Finally, the positive predictive value of the TT was 100%. Thirty-four patients were negative for the TT: 22 patients are celiac, 3 are celiac but challenge gluten diet is pending, and the 9 patients left have other gastrointestinal disorder. Conclusions Our study supports the view that in selected children who are symptomatic and positive for the TT, CD diagnosis could be established independent of histological findings.

Hepatocyte transplantation (HT) has become an effective therapy for patients with metabolic inborn errors. We report the clinical outcome of four children with metabolic inborn errors that underwent HT, describing the cell infusion protocol and the metabolic outcome of transplanted patients. Cryopreserved hepatocytes were used as this allows scheduling of treatments. Functional competence (viability, cell attachment, major cytochrome P450 and UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 activities, and urea synthesis) and microbiological safety of cell batches were assessed prior to clinical use. Four pediatric patients with liver metabolic diseases [ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) deficiency, Crigler–Najjar (CNI) syndrome, glycogen storage disease Ia (GSD-Ia), and tyrosinemia type I (TYR-I)] underwent HT. Indication for HT was based on severity of disease, deterioration of quality of life, and benefits for the patients, with the ultimate goal to improve their clinical status whenever liver transplantation (LT) was not indicated or to bridge LT. Cells were infused into the portal vein while monitoring portal flow. The protocol included antibiotic prophylaxis and immunosuppressant therapy. After HT, analytical data on the disease were obtained. The OTC-deficient patient showed a sustained decrease in plasma ammonia levels and increased urea production after HT. Further cell infusions could not be administered given a fatal nosocomial fungus sepsis 2 weeks after the last HT. The CNI and GSD-Ia patients improved their clinical status after HT. They displayed reduced serum bilirubin levels (by ca. 50%) and absence of hypoglycaemic episodes, respectively. In both cases, the HT contributed to stabilize their clinical status as LT was not indicated. In the infant with TYR-I, HT stabilized temporarily the biochemical parameters, resulting in the amelioration of his clinical status while diagnosis of the disease was unequivocally confirmed by full gene sequencing. In this patient, HT served as a bridge therapy to LT.

Aims To characterise the predominant species of bacterial populations associated with duodenal biopsies of paediatric patients with active and treated coeliac disease. Methods 20 biopsy specimens from patients with active coeliac disease, 12 from patients with treated coeliac disease, and eight from age-matched controls were evaluated for comparative purposes. Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium and lactic acid bacteria (LAB) populations were analysed by PCR-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis using group-specific primers. Results Bacteroides diversity was higher in biopsy specimens from controls than in those from patients with active and treated coeliac disease. Bacteroides distasonis, Bacteroides fragilis/Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, Bacteroides uniformis and Bacteroides ovatus were more abundant in controls than in patients with coeliac disease (p

Objective: To assay the efficiency for celiac disease (CD) screening of 2 immunochromatographic visual stick assays based on human recombinant tissue transglutaminase (tTG). One was the antitissue transglutaminase antibodies (AtTGA) stick for IgA/G antibodies to tTG detection, the other was the AtTGA/antigliadin antibodies (AGA) stick for IgA antibodies for tTG and/or gliadins. Patients and Methods: In a prospective multicenter study, 4 pediatric gastroenterology units from Spain and 2 from Latin America enrolled 72 control children with a normal small bowel mucosa and 113 untreated patients with CD with Marsh type 3 lesions. Results: Evaluation of results by the gastroenterologists and by 2 independent observers at the coordination center showed a remarkably low interobserver variability. For the AtTGA stick, sensitivity was 96.5% and specificity was 98.6%. The AtTGA/AGA stick displayed a sensitivity of 94.5% and a specificity of 98.6% for AtTGA and a sensitivity of 63.1% and a specificity of 95.2% for AGA. The highest efficiency and positive likelihood ratio was obtained for the AtTGA stick, higher than for IgA AtTGA by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. One additional advantage was that previous investigation of total serum IgA levels could be eluded. The IgA AtTGA/AGA stick, with an efficiency of 95.1%, compared with 89.2% when the combined results of the 2 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were considered, turned out to be an excellent diagnostic tool for infants with no IgA deficiency. Conclusion: These 2 assays are extremely efficient for CD screening, by combining a high diagnostic accuracy with the simplicity and rapidity of visual methods.