Celiac Disease

This is also known as Gluten-induced Enteropathy. This condition is characterized  by diarrhea and other signs of malabsorption after ingestion of wheat or rye gluten.

Gluten alters the mucosa of the intestines resulting in impaired fat absorption. The antibodies to wheat gliadin were elevated in the serum and stools.

Clinically, celiac disease is insidious in onset. The incidence is greater in 6-18 month old infants. The following are being demonstrated:

– diarrhea

– bulky stools with abundant fat

– weight loss

– failure to thrive

– distended abdomen 

– there is a characteristic wasting of the extremities and buttocks

– growth retardation

– pallor

– vomiting

Most children in gluten – free diet will thrive well and will gain weight. Some have reverted to regular diet without any adverse effect but a few have to be on gluten-free diet when recurrences occur. Recurrences have been demonstrated in adult celiacs during pregnancy.

Celiac patients have to be on gluten-free diet. Then they are given iv fluids in some cases to correct fluid and electrolyte imbalance. Supplements of vitamins A,B,C,D and K and minerals such as Calcium are provided.