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Coeliac disease in adults: variations on a theme
A Bhattacharyya1, M K Patel, D J Tymms
1Department of Medicine, Royal Albert Edward Infirmary, Wigan, UK.
Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine
|September 3, 1999
Summary
Coeliac disease, or gluten enteropathy, typically presents in childhood. However, this study highlights atypical adult presentations, including clotting disorders and weight loss, which improved with gluten withdrawal.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Internal Medicine
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Coeliac disease (gluten enteropathy) commonly manifests in childhood with growth issues.
- Adult presentations are often characterized by malabsorption syndromes.
Observation:
- Six adult patients presented with atypical symptoms of coeliac disease.
- Presenting features included clotting disorders, hypoglycemia, weight loss, anemia, and angina pectoris.
Findings:
- All six patients showed symptom resolution following a gluten-free diet.
- This suggests gluten withdrawal is effective for atypical adult coeliac disease.
Implications:
- Highlights the diverse clinical spectrum of adult coeliac disease.
- Emphasizes the importance of considering coeliac disease in adults with unexplained systemic symptoms.
- Supports gluten withdrawal as a therapeutic intervention for atypical presentations.