Serological testing for coeliac disease in patients with symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome: a cost-effectiveness analysis

Modelling The authors constructed a decision analytic model, using Data-Pro (Tree-Age Software, Inc.), to estimate the clinical and economic consequences of the two serological testing strategies versus no testing. Also, to evaluate up-front endoscopic biopsy in all patients, or the addition of biopsy in patients already undergoing EGD. The results of the model depended on the critical assumption that uncovering coeliac in a patient with suspected IBS would lead, on average, to an improved quality of life. This assumption was based on the authors' clinical experience and on some evidence derived from the literature.