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Coeliac Disease

An inherited disorder in which an autoimmune response to gluten damages the small bowel.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Coeliac Disease?

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder that develops in genetically predisposed people in response to dietary gluten and causes injury to the small intestinal mucosa. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye and their derivatives.

Damage to the intestinal villi impairs absorption of nutrients, leading to deficiencies of iron, calcium, B vitamins and fat-soluble vitamins. Untreated coeliac disease increases the long-term risk of osteoporosis, infertility, neuropathy and bowel cancer.

Coeliac disease affects roughly 1% of the world population, but most cases are believed to be undiagnosed. The only effective treatment is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet.

Symptoms

Abdominal pain, bloating and gas
Chronic diarrhoea or fatty stools (steatorrhoea)
Weight loss and growth failure (in children)
Fatigue and iron-deficiency anaemia
Bone and joint pain (calcium deficiency)
Dermatitis herpetiformis (itchy blistering rash)
Depression, peripheral neuropathy and headache

Risk Factors

First-degree relative with coeliac disease
Type 1 diabetes
Down syndrome or Turner syndrome
Autoimmune thyroid disease
Carriage of HLA-DQ2 or HLA-DQ8 gene variants
Diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (where coeliac disease may be missed)
Unexplained iron-deficiency anaemia

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Chronic diarrhoea, weight loss and fatigue together
  • Unexplained iron or B12 deficiency
  • First-degree relative diagnosed with coeliac disease
  • Onset of an itchy blistering skin rash
  • Digestive symptoms in someone with type 1 diabetes or autoimmune thyroid disease

Treatment Methods

01
Strict, lifelong gluten-free diet (the only treatment)
02
Removal of wheat, barley, rye and their derivatives from the diet
03
Avoiding cross-contamination (kitchenware, label reading)
04
Replacement of iron, calcium, vitamin D and B12 deficiencies
05
Assessment for refractory coeliac disease if symptoms persist despite adherence
06
Annual follow-up with serology (anti-tissue transglutaminase antibody)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.