Celiac Disease

Gluten enteropathy or celiac sprue

Celiac disease is characterized by damage to part of the small intestine, interfering with the body's natural ability to absorb food and nutrients properly. The actual cause is not known, but there appears to be a genetic component. In addition, an autoimmune phenomenon (the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the intestines) probably is a major factor.

Though the actual cause is unknown, the elimination of gluten from the diet often resolves the symptoms, and causes the small intestine to heal in nearly all cases. Gluten is the protein portion of wheat, rye, barley, and oats. Wheat flour, the major component in bread and most baked goods, must be eliminated.

Abdominal Bloating

Flatulence ("Gas")

Greasy stools

Weight loss

Weakness

Constant hunger

Easy Bruising

Genetic predisposition

Probably autoimmune (see above)

Examination:

Loss of muscle mass
Loss of body fat
Itching blisters

Laboratory:

Complete blood count
Serum iron, folate, vitamin B12, Calcium,Alkaline phosphatase, albumin, beta-carotene
Prothrombin time
Stool test for fat in stool
D-xylose test -- not commonly done any more, checked for malabsorption
IgG and IgA anti-gliadin antibodies
IgA endomysial antibody

Testing

- Intestinal biopsy (can be done with endoscopy --passing scope through esophagus)

Remove all gluten-containing products from the diet -- wheat, rye, barley, and oat products.

Carefully read ingredients on the package of all baked goods and processed foods, as they often contain gluten in one form or another. Gluten is not only the primary ingredient in breads, crackers, and pastries, but it is often added to many manufactured foods.

Rice, corn, potato, and soybean flours are safe to use.

Expect improvement in about two weeks.

Rare individuals who fail diet restrictions may need corticosteroids or Cyclosporine (both treat autoimmune diseases).

10% of individuals with Celiac Sprue develop intestinal Lymphoma (a form of cancer). If symptoms recur after elimination of gluten from the diet, then intestinal Lymphoma should be suspected.