[Guidelines for diagnosis and follow-up of patients with celiac disease. Norwegian Coeliac Association]

Abstract

The incidence and prevalence of coeliac disease in Norway is probably much higher than previously recognized. A prevalence of 1 per 676 individuals has been reported among adults in Norway. A much higher incidence has been documented in Sweden, both among children (one per approximately 300 liveborns) and among adults (1:256 healthy blood donors). Similar prevalence figures have been reported from Italy among young students. Eight new, biopsy-proven cases of coeliac disease were recently found by screening 2296 blood donors in Bergen (1:287). The symptoms of coeliac disease are often vague. Oligo- and asymptomatic cases often occur. The advisory council of the Norwegian Coeliac Association has established guidelines for the diagnostic work-up and for follow-up of patients with coeliac disease, in order to raise awareness of the disease, achieve a standardized work-up procedure and improve follow-up.