Introduction: No published material on the prevalence of celiac disease (CD) in the pediatric population of Argentina has been found up to date. Objective. To estimate the prevalence of CD in a pediatric population (hospital-based sample) from 5 urban districts of Argentina.
Methods: In a cross-sectional descriptive study, we analyzed serum samples from 2219 children, aged 3-16 years old, which had been requested for pre-surgical tests and for physical aptitude certificates for sports in the province of Buenos Aires, and cities of Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Santa Fe and Salta. Children with a previous and accurate diagnosis of CD were also included. IgA class tissue transglutaminase antibodies were determined using serum samples, and those samples which turned out positive were also tested for IgA class endomysium antibodies. A small intestine biopsy was proposed for those who had a positive serology.
Results: Between May 2008 and August 2009, 29 positive serologies were found. A total of 22 duodenum biopsies were performed, and 21 turned out compatible with CD. Out of 2219 children, 7 had a previous diagnosis. A prevalence of 1.26% (1:79 children), with female gender predominance (p < 0.023) was found. Ninety percent of the celiac children were over 6 years old (p < 0.021). Silent celiac disease predominated but there was a 33% of symptomatic cases.
Conclusions: The results of the trial show a higher prevalence of CD than expected. The finding of symptomatic patients (33%) suggests the undertaking of different activities to spread the knowledge on this disease and promote the indication for serology test, to avoid complications by means of an early diagnosis.