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Celiac Disease

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition

Celiac Disease

(Celiac Sprue; Nontropical Sprue; Gluten-Sensitive Enteropathy)

Definition

Celiac disease is a chronic digestive and immune disorder that damages the small intestine. The immune system overreacts to foods that contain gluten. This is a protein that is found in wheat, barley, and rye. Eating these foods damages bulges (villi) in the small intestine. This makes it hard for the body to get the nutrients that it needs.

Cross Section of Small Intestine.

Inner lining demonstrates protrusions affected by celiac disease.

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Causes

This problem is caused by a response to eating foods that have gluten. It is not known why this happens in some people. Genetics play a role.

Risk Factors

This problem is more common in women. Other things that may raise the risk are:

  • Having certain genes
  • Having family members with the disease
  • Having certain health problems, such as:
  • Dietary factors in people at higher risk for the disease

Symptoms

Symptoms vary from person to person. They are also not the same in children as in adults.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done.

Blood tests will be done to look for antibodies and genes linked to the disease.

Images will be taken of the intestines. This can be done with endoscopy. A tissue sample may be taken at the same time. This can be done with a biopsy .

Treatment

There is no cure for celiac disease. The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms. This can only be done with a life-long, gluten-free diet. A dietitian can help with meal planning. A person must avoid all foods that contain wheat, rye, and barley. This will mean reading food labels carefully. Special care will also need to be taken when eating out.

Vitamin and mineral supplements may also be given to improve nutrition.

Prevention

Some young children have a genetic risk for celiac disease. It is possible that eating higher amounts of gluten may raise their risk for the disease.

In Children

  • Belly pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Lack of hunger
  • Diarrhea
  • Bulky stools with a strong odor
  • Irritability
  • Pale skin
  • Sores in and around the mouth
  • Slowed growth
  • Delayed puberty

In Children

  • Belly pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Lack of hunger
  • Diarrhea
  • Bulky stools with a strong odor
  • Irritability
  • Pale skin
  • Sores in and around the mouth
  • Slowed growth
  • Delayed puberty

In Adults

  • Gas and bloating
  • Diarrhea
  • Foul-smelling, light-colored, oily stool
  • Weight loss
  • Appetite changes
  • Lack of energy
  • Belly pain
  • Lightheadedness
  • Skin rash
RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Caio G, Volta U, et al. Celiac disease: a comprehensive current review. BMC Med. 2019;17(1):142.
  • Celiac disease. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/celiac-disease.
  • Celiac disease. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/celiac-disease.

Contributors

  • Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
Last Updated:
2023-06-01

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.