Celiac Disease State Management

Celiac disease (CD) is a condition triggered by the consumption of the protein gluten that is typically found in breads, pastas, and many other foods containing wheat, barley, and rye. This disease leads to the damage of the tiny hair-like projections, called villi, which are found on the intestinal wall lining, and results in the intestines inability to absorb nutrients such as vitamins, proteins, minerals, and fats. CD is probably more common than researchers previously believed and according to recent studies by the University of Chicago, Celiac Disease Center can be found in 1 in 133 people. However, if there is a first degree relative diagnosed with CD, the prevalence is closer to 1 in 22 people. CD is typically under-diagnosed due to fact that is resembles many other conditions that result in malabsorption and similar symptoms are reported by affected individuals. Symptoms of CD include: intermittent diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, weight loss, and foul smelling discolored feces.

Diagnosis of CD can be confirmed by a blood test that detects high levels of antibodies like: anti-gladin, anti-endomysium, and anti-tissue transglutaminase. These antibodies are present in higher than normal levels due to the body’s identification of gluten in the intestinal tract as a foreign substance and the resulting effort to eliminate the substance. Although there currently is not cure for CD, it can usually be managed by diet modifications to eliminate or minimize ingestion of gluten containing foods. Avoidance of gluten may be essential in preventing complications such as malnutrition, loss of calcium and bone density (osteoporosis), lactose intolerance, intestinal lymphoma, and bowel cancer.

Links - Celiac disease

National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) - A service of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), National Institutes of Health.

Celiac Disease Foundation CDF - CDF strives to promote awareness and build a supportive community for patients, families and health care professionals.

Nemours Foundation - Teens Health is a service of the Nemours Foundation; Nemours, established in 1936 by philanthropist Alfred I. duPont, is dedicated to improving the health and spirit of children. This page for teens and adolescents explains the disease, symptoms and ways to live with Celiac Disease.

American Academy of Family Practitioners - Information from American Academy of Family Practitioners.

UrologyChannel.com - NFCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to finding a cure for Celiac Disease.

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