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Celiac Disease Program
Celiac disease is an autoimmune digestive disorder affecting the small intestine of genetically susceptible individuals. Specific protein fragments of wheat, rye, and barley trigger the disease. These protein fragments are referred to collectively as gluten, the compound that gives elasticity to dough. Gluten protein fragments have been identified that stimulate the immune system, leading to inflammation of the intestine and shortening of the intestinal villi.
People with celiac disease have poor absorption. Symptoms of celiac disease include abdominal bloating, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, infertility, iron deficiency, anemia, osteoporosis, weight loss and malnutrition. The disease affects 1 in 133 people in the U.S. More than 95% of celiac disease patients remain undiagnosed.
The UCLA celiac disease program is dedicated to provide high quality care for patients with celiac disease. The program aims to advance the medical community's understanding of the disease through research. Because of the resources of UCLA's David Geffen School of Medicine, a multidisciplinary approach is possible for managing celiac disease related problems. The Digestive Disease Division works closely with UCLA's world-renowned Gastrointestinal Pathology and Laboratory Medicine experts to secure an accurate diagnosis.
If you suspect that you have celiac disease, ask your UCLA physician to order a Celiac Panel blood test to check for the specific antibodies related to celiac disease. A biopsy of the intestine is needed before you begin a gluten-free diet to confirm celiac disease. The Celiac Disease program providers can provide testing for those with suspected celiac disease as part of your visit.
New patients are encouraged to bring or send outside records in advance so that more time can be spent during the visit for consultation and examination.
Celiac Disease Experts
Gregory Harmon, MD
Director, Celiac Disease Program
Eric Esrailian, MD, MPH
Terri Getzug, MD
Kevin Ghassemi, MD
Patient appointments: (310) 206-6279
Referral fax: (310) 206-8150
To request an appointment online
