Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that occurs in genetically predisposed individuals. It is characterized by a harmful immune response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, which leads to inflammation and damage in the lining of the small intestine. This damage impairs the absorption of nutrients and can result in a wide array of clinical manifestations ranging from gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, and weight loss, to systemic signs like anemia, osteoporosis, and neurological issues. Diagnosis is typically based on a combination of serologic tests for celiac-specific antibodies, like anti-tissue transglutaminase (tTG) and anti-endomysial antibodies (EMA), and confirmation through an intestinal biopsy demonstrating villous atrophy.

The mainstay of treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet, which allows the intestinal lining to heal and symptoms to resolve. Patients must avoid all products containing gluten, as even trace amounts can trigger an immune response. Ongoing medical follow-up is crucial to monitor the patient's adherence to the diet, assess for associated conditions, such as dermatitis herpetiformis and various nutritional deficiencies, and manage complications that may arise. There is currently no cure for celiac disease, and adherence to a gluten-free diet remains the only effective intervention.