Main content
We use cookies and similar tools to give you the best website experience. By using our site, you accept our Websites Privacy Policy.
Experts in the Pediatric Celiac Disease Program, part of Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone, strive to improve the wellbeing of patients with celiac disease.
As part of the Pediatric Gastroenterology Program, we offer multidisciplinary medical, nutritional, and psychosocial care for children and their families. Our team emphasizes close follow-up care, including monitoring celiac-specific antibodies, vitamin and mineral levels, growth, and bone health. Patients are typically seen by their pediatric gastroenterologist and support team initially every six months, and then eventually at least once a year.
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition in which the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, causes inflammation and damage to the small intestine. This damage interferes with nutrient absorption and can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, poor growth, fatigue, anemia, and bone weakness. Some children have few or no symptoms but still experience intestinal injury.
Celiac disease is usually diagnosed through a blood test that measures celiac-specific antibodies. If blood test results are positive, an upper endoscopy with small intestinal biopsies is performed to confirm the diagnosis.
If your child has tested positive for celiac disease through a blood test, please do not start a gluten-free diet before diagnostic testing is complete. Continuing to eat gluten is essential for accurate results.
The only effective treatment for celiac disease is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. Patients and families who are part of our Pediatric Celiac Disease Program meet with a registered dietitian to create an individualized nutrition plan and learn how to safely grocery shop, prepare meals, and avoid cross-contamination.
With proper treatment and follow-up care, the intestine can heal, symptoms may improve, and children can grow and thrive. Our team monitors antibody levels, nutrition status, and bone health to ensure ongoing wellness.
We understand that successful treatment of celiac disease requires involvement from the entire family. Our pediatric gastroenterology psychologists through our Integrated Behavioral Health Program help children and families cope with symptoms and treatment. Licensed social workers provide counseling, assist families in adjusting to a diagnosis, and offer strategies for navigating social situations such as birthday parties, school events, and meals outside the home.
We are located at 160 East 32nd Street, Medical Level (L2), in Manhattan.
We can help you find a Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital doctor.
Call 646-929-7970
or
browse our specialists.