In 2008, after becoming almost immobile from the jaw downward, I was diagnosed with polymyositis. I happened to notice that eating a slice of bread exacerbated all my symptoms, so I went on a GF diet. A year later I broke my leg and the doctor tested my blood for CD, but the test came back negative, because you do have to be eating gluten when you're tested. The doctor said that the blood test is only 40% accurate and added that the intestinal biopsy is the "gold standard." But, of course, even then they have to biopsy an affected portion of the intestine. He wouldn't do it because of my compromised immune system and the risk of infection. Because an accidental glutening hits me so hard, I wouldn't have gone through the test anyway, because I didn't want to eat gluten for 4-6 weeks before the test. Besides, he was one of the two doctors who told me that anyone suspecting gluten is a problem should take the 90-day challenge, whereby they eat 100% GF for 90 days and then reintroduce gluten. If problems return or new ones develop, then that person should remain GF for life. Might I have CD? Possibly. But at the very least I'm gluten sensitive/intolerant. For me, I don't care what people think, or what classification I am, I choose not to eat gluten for life. I almost died from the polymyositis in 2008, and I never want to go through that again. If I can keep my health issues at bay by avoiding gluten, then that's what I choose to do. But each of us must decide for him-/herself. So whichever way you choose (testing or not), I wish you the very best. But the fact that so many problems cleared up when you eliminated gluten from your diet should help you make the decision. Lots of good wishes sent your way.

I second everything that nanny says.

Unless you need some proof for some reason, there is little reason to go thru testing.

It is expensive. The biopsy has dangers iteself. The equipment can not be properly sterilized. Even when manufacturers directions for cleaning are followed perfectly, biomatter from previous procedures has been found on scopes of all kinds. There have been cases of people becoming infected with serious and fatal disease from this issue.

You will still want to follow a gluten free diet to feel well regardless of the results.

The only test I would do if I was you and had a cousin with celiac would be to ask for the blood draw and see if you carry the gene. I do and have given it to both my sons who didn't get tested until their 20's. I was dx'd at 54 but born with it. We believe my mom passed it on to me. My younger son was dx'd at 22, he gained 30 lbs and grew over an inch. If you have or are thinking of having kids I would get the gene test. You already know gluten is bad for you. I wouldn't eat it again if I was you for a test. Your intestines take up to a year to heal from the damage. Why go through that. If your not eating gluten you aren't damaging your intestines. If you haven't had a colonoscopy that is always good to see if you have any polyps. Good luck making a decision.