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Childhood Celiac Disease

Immune-mediated small intestine disease developing against gluten intake.

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 Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Childhood Celiac Disease?

Celiac disease is an autoimmune enteropathy that develops in genetically predisposed individuals (HLA-DQ2/DQ8) in response to gluten exposure. Villus atrophy, crypt hyperplasia, and intraepithelial lymphocytosis are observed in the small intestine.

Classic symptoms in children are chronic diarrhea, abdominal distension, failure to thrive, and weakness; however, atypical forms (short stature, iron deficiency anemia, constipation, dermatitis herpetiformis, infertility) have become more frequently seen.

Anti-tissue transglutaminase IgA and total IgA measurement is the initial diagnostic test; positive results are confirmed by duodenal biopsy. The only effective treatment is lifelong strict gluten-free diet.

Symptoms

Chronic diarrhea or constipation
Abdominal distension and pain
Growth retardation
Weight loss or failure to gain weight
Iron deficiency anemia
Irritability and fatigue

Risk Factors

HLA-DQ2/DQ8 positivity
First-degree relative with celiac
Type 1 diabetes
Autoimmune thyroiditis
Down, Turner, Williams syndrome
Selective IgA deficiency

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • When a child has chronic diarrhea and growth retardation
  • When iron deficiency anemia does not respond to treatment
  • Pruritic rash similar to dermatitis herpetiformis
  • For screening children with family history
  • Routine screening with type 1 DM and thyroiditis

Treatment Methods

01
Anti-TTG IgA and total IgA test
02
Confirmation with duodenal biopsy
03
Lifelong strict gluten-free diet
04
Nutrition planning with a dietitian
05
Iron, vitamin D, calcium support
06
Regular clinical and serological follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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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.