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[Neurological diseases associated with celiac disease].
E M Hagen1, I O Gjerde, C Vedeler
1Nevrologisk avdeling, Haukeland Sykehus, Bergen.
Summary
Coeliac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis can manifest with neurological disorders like polyneuropathy and ataxia. Awareness is crucial for early diagnosis and management of these gluten-related neurological conditions.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
Background:
- Coeliac disease (CD) and dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) are gluten-sensitive autoimmune disorders.
- Neurological manifestations are increasingly recognized in patients with CD and DH.
Observation:
- Eight patients with CD or DH and neurological disorders were admitted between May 1997 and October 1998.
- The most common neurological conditions observed were polyneuropathy (7 patients) and spinocerebellar ataxia (3 patients).
- Other neurological conditions included lower motor neuron disease, myelopathy, epilepsy, and encephalopathy.
Findings:
- Neurological symptoms can precede gastrointestinal symptoms in CD and DH.
- Potential pathogenetic mechanisms include vitamin depletion and immunological responses.
- The exact relationship between CD/DH and neurological disorders requires further investigation.
Implications:
- Neurologists, gastroenterologists, and general practitioners should consider CD/DH in patients presenting with neurological diseases, particularly polyneuropathy, cerebellar ataxia, and encephalopathy.
- Increased awareness can lead to earlier diagnosis and appropriate management of these gluten-related neurological complications.
- Further research into shared pathogenetic mechanisms is warranted to improve patient outcomes.