Celiac Disease
- Systemic autoimmune disease triggered by dietary gluten peptides found in wheat, rye, barley, and related grains.
- Common, affecting up to 1% of the general population, and may present at any age.
- Presentation is varied and ranges from diarrhoea and failure to thrive, to iron-deficiency anaemia or osteoporosis.
- Diagnosis is suggested by positive immunoglobulin A tissue transglutaminase serology, but must be confirmed by duodenal biopsy and histology.
- The only current therapy is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet.
- Complications of untreated coeliac disease include gastrointestinal symptoms, malabsorption, increased risk of malignancy, and higher overall mortality than in the general population
