Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) provides a safe, non-invasive way to visualize the small intestine and is helpful in celiac disease patients in select situations. VCE can be performed in patients who are unable or unwilling to undergo conventional endoscopy, those with positive celiac serology with normal duodenal biopsies, and also in those who develop alarm symptoms. VCE has limitations including subjective interpretation. Techniques are being developed to standardize assessment of VCE images in patients with known or suspected celiac disease. Pilot studies using computer-based quantification methods have shown promise in examining the 3-dimensional mucosal structure and motility.
Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Inc.