(Age: 13 years, male)
My son is now 13 year-old and was diagnosed at age 5.
He was first seen by a paediatrician in Emergency for suspected appendix at age 3. At that time his distended stomach and anemia were noted. Conclusion: he was constipated!
Seen six months later, it was suggested he do sit-ups for his distended stomach. Referred to a dietitian to look at his diet.
I asked the GP for referral to a new pediatrician.
He was seen at age 4. His projected height as an adult was 5’4”. His father, mother and brother were all very tall.
We went back in six months. He was tested for cystic fibrosis and given fatty stool test. All negative.
Finally, at age 5 referred to a pediatric gastroenterologist in a larger centre for biopsy.
During six-week waiting period I asked if I could do a trial of a gluten-free diet. The pediatrician said that would be fine but to consult with a dietitian. Talking to her she strongly urged me not to as it skews biopsy results.
This child had short stature, wasted limbs, distended stomach, anemia, chronic constipation, small buttocks and brittle bones (he broke his arm at age 4 in a simple fall). For three years he said his stomach hurt.
No doctor ever suggested celiac disease until he finally saw a pediatric gastroenterologist. I did because a nursing friend said I should explore that possibility.
The pediatric gastroenterologist took one look at him in the pre-operative examination and said that it was a very obvious case of celiac disease.
