Today, let us look at a rare yet very serious autoimmune disorder known as celiac disease.
A genetic condition known as celiac disease causes people who are predisposed to it to have trouble breaking down the protein gluten. Rye, wheat, and barley are common sources of gluten. This sets off an aberrant autoimmune response that damages the villi and intestinal lining, resulting in systemic problems and malnutrition.
Approximately 1 in 100 people worldwide suffer from celiac disease, but only about 30% receive a proper diagnosis.
Clinical presentation varies greatly; some people have no symptoms at all, while others experience GI symptoms.
Dermatitis herpetiformis, an itchy blistering rash that affects the elbows, knees, buttocks, and scalp, affects about 15% of patients.
For diagnosis: Intestinal biopsy by endoscopy is used to confirm after serological testing for gluten-related antibodies.
Management and treatment are straightforward: avoiding gluten-containing foods, but this proves to be the most challenging aspect. However, most patients report that once they take the necessary precautions, their health improves. Steroids and other dietary supplements may be used therapeutically.
This might raise a doubt whether gluten intolerance and celiac disease are the same.
