Q. Explain about Celiac Disease?

Gluten-sensitive enteropathy or, as it is more commonly called, celiac disease, is an autoimmune inflammatory disease of the small intestine. It is precipitated by the ingestion of gluten, a component of wheat protein-gliadin, in genetically susceptible persons. A defect in the enzyme system that. Splits this protein fraction along with atrophy of jejunal mucosa may be the specific cause for celiac disease. It usually develops within the first three years of life.

Child with celiac disease fails to thrive, losses appetite and has a potbelly. Stools are large, pale and offensive due to the presence of fat in the form of fatty acids. Anaemia is present with symptoms of paleness, fatigue, tachycardia (fast pulse). The microscopic section of the villi shows flattening of the villi. When gluten-free foods are given there is a dramatic recovery in the symptoms and the reversal of villi to normal growth. Celiac disease has also been noted to be associated with numerous neurologic disorders, including epilepsy, cerebral calcifications, and peripheral neuropathy.