The Sant’Antonio Abate Hospital in Trapani has been designated by the Regional Health Department as the reference health facility for the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of celiac disease in the province. The centre, recognized as a Hub with Dr. Marcello Palmeri as contact person, takes on a role of primary importance in the care network dedicated to this pathology.
What is celiac disease? – Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that affects the small intestine due to a reaction to gluten, a protein found in some cereals such as wheat, barley and rye. It occurs only in genetically predisposed subjects and its consumption triggers an immune response that damages the intestinal structures, hindering the absorption of nutrients.
Why a Hub Center for celiac disease in Trapani? – In the province of Trapani there are around 450 diagnosed celiacs, but the actual number, considering the cases not yet identified, is probably higher and constantly increasing, in line with the trend observed throughout Sicily. To meet this need and guarantee adequate assistance, the Region has decided to implement a network of specialized centres, identifying the Sant’Antonio Abate Hospital as a provincial reference point.
What does the Hub Center offer? – The Hub Center of the Sant’Antonio Abate Hospital offers a complete range of services dedicated to celiac disease: Gastroenterological visits for adults and children: clinical and diagnostic evaluation of celiac disease.
Initial diagnosis: performing blood tests and intestinal biopsy to confirm celiac disease.
Completion of the diagnostic confirmation form and disease certification: release of the documents necessary for the recognition of celiac disease and access to the benefits provided by law.
Follow-up: periodic monitoring of the celiac patient to evaluate the course of the disease and the effectiveness of dietary therapy, which represents the fundamental pillar of treatment.
Nutrition education: support for the adoption of a gluten-free diet, fundamental for the management of celiac disease.
Psychological support: assistance in dealing with the emotional and social difficulties associated with celiac disease.
Screening of family members at risk: identification of any cases of celiac disease among the patient’s close relatives.
How to access the service – The Hub Center’s outpatient service is active every Tuesday from 8.30 to 10.00 for blood tests and from 3.00 to 6.00 for visits and certifications. Access takes place by booking at the Cup with a request from the family doctor or pediatrician of your choice, specifying “suspected celiac disease or celiac disease follow-up”.
