Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Non-invasive biomarkers, for the diagnosis of celiac disease, can reduce the need for biopsy, particularly in pediatric patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the levels tissue transglutaminase antibody (tTG) and plasma citrulline and its correlation with intestinal biopsy. METHODS: In this cross-sectional descriptive study, Pediatric patients with celiac disease referred to (XXX)were included. The patients underwent tTG antibody test along with plasma citrulline measurements using HPLC ((high performance liquid chromatography). Biopsy was performed in all the patients and clinical and demographic findings were recorded in a patient form. The data were statistically analyzed using SPSSv22. RESULTS: Of 118 patients with celiac disease, the mean level of citrulline in patients was 17.48 ± 6.92 and the mean tTG titer was 183.17 ± 41.25. The two variables were inversely correlated with each other, p < 0.01. With an increase in Marsh levels, a significant reduction in citrulline levels and an increase in plasma tTG levels were seen, p < 0.01, respectively. The mean citrulline and tTG titer was not associated with gender and the age of the patients. CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate that citrulline and tTG antibody titer are significant biomarkers for the diagnosis of celiac disease and the severity of intestinal atrophy among pediatric patients.