Celiac sprue

Description

Celiac disease or celiac sprue. Congenital autoimmune disease in which mucous membrane of thesmall intestine is damaged due to consumption of gluten and other proteins found in wheat, barley, rye and oat. Disease causes diarrhea, malabsorption, steatorrhea (fat in the stool), deficit of vitamins and other nutrients, and in children it can lead to delay in development and growth. This disorder is more often in patients with diabetes type 1, autoimmune diseases, microscopic colitis, lactose intolerance, Down syndrome or intestinal cancer. Avoiding of food with gluten enables intestines to recover, but months and even years can pass until full disappearing of symptoms.

Symptoms

Abdominal pain, stomach puffiness, constipation, decreased appetite, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, lactose intolerance, fat in the stool, weight loss.

Overview

History of disease is being taken and physical examination is being done. Blood analysis for detection of the antibodies. Endoscopy and biopsy of small intestine might be necessary.

Tests

Complete blood count (CBC) and biochemical blood analysis.

Additional analyses

Endoscopy, Biopsy, Detection of antibodies

Specialists

General Practice, Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine

Therapy

Treatment includes avoiding of gluten in nutrition, including groceries produced from wheat, rye, barley and oat, for example: bread, cereals, pasta, crackers, cakes, pies, cookie and sauces. Counseling with nutritionist can be especially useful.