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Celiac sprue (the great modern-day imposter)
1Celiac Disease Center, Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, NY 10032, USA.
Current Opinion in Rheumatology
|December 14, 2005
Summary
Celiac disease affects about 1% of the population worldwide and often presents with non-gastrointestinal symptoms like anemia or neurological issues, making diagnosis challenging.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Epidemiology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Celiac disease is a prevalent autoimmune disorder affecting approximately 1% of the global population.
- Diagnosis is increasing worldwide, including in developing nations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current epidemiological data on celiac disease.
- To explore the diverse clinical presentations and associated conditions of celiac disease.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological studies.
- Analysis of various celiac disease presentations and associated diseases.
Main Results:
- Celiac disease occurs in about 1% of the population globally.
- Classic malabsorption symptoms are present in less than 50% of cases; other common presentations include iron-deficiency anemia, osteoporosis, and neurological or rheumatological issues.
- Associated autoimmune diseases are more frequent in celiac patients, and early diagnosis does not prevent this increased incidence.
Conclusions:
- Celiac disease presents heterogeneously, often mimicking other conditions.
- The varied symptoms pose diagnostic challenges, earning it the moniker 'the great modern-day imposter'.