A :
B :
C :
D :
E :
F :
G :
H :
I :
J :
K :
L :
M :
N :
O :
P :
Q :
R :
S :
T :
U :
V :
W :
X :
Y :
Z
Coeliac Disease
Medical Questions » Coeliac Disease
| Name: Coeliac Disease |
| Also known as: Celiac Disease; Coeliac Sprue; Non-Tropical Sprue |
| A disease of the small intestine that usually starts in childhood, and persists into early adult life, often settling in middle age. |
Causes of Coeliac Disease
Congenital condition caused by a genetic error that prevents the small intestine from absorbing fats and, to a lesser extent, carbohydrates and protein, because the intestine becomes sensitized to gluten. Gluten is found in wheat, oats, barley and rye cereals, and may be used as a bulking agent in prepared foods such as sausages. |
Symptoms of Coeliac Disease
Patients are unable to tolerate any form of gluten in their intestine. If it is eaten they develop large, foul-smelling, frothy, fatty motions. This causes weight loss, anemia and generalized weakness due to lack of nutrition and a failure to absorb vitamins A, D, E and K (the fat soluble vitamins). |
Tests for Coeliac Disease
Initially diagnosed by a series of blood and faces tests, but the final diagnosis can only be confirmed by taking a biopsy (sample) of the lining of the small intestine. |
Treatment for Coeliac Disease
Responds to a diet free of gluten, high in calories and protein, and low in fat.
|
Complications of Coeliac Disease of its treatment
Rashes and weak bones, as well as a failure to grow and foul diarrhea may occur if untreated. |
Likely Outcome of Coeliac Disease
In most patients it is completely controlled by diet. Once they reach adult life, many patients find they can slowly introduce gluten containing products to their diet without ill effect. |
|
|
