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[Celiac crisis: presentation as bleeding diathesis]

Sebastián Gutiérrez1, Martín Toro, Alejandro Cassar

  • 1Servicio de Gastroenterología y Endoscopia Digestiva, Hospital Italiano de Mendoza, Mendoza, Argentina. xebax@gutierrez.net.ar

Acta Gastroenterologica Latinoamericana
|May 5, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Celiac crisis, a rare but severe complication of celiac disease, can manifest unusually in adults. This case highlights the importance of considering celiac crisis in adult presentations with symptoms like tetany and bleeding.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Internal Medicine
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten ingestion.
  • Celiac crisis is a rare, severe complication, typically seen in young children.
  • Adult presentations of celiac crisis are infrequently reported.

Observation:

  • A 26-year-old female presented with tetany and bleeding diathesis.
  • These symptoms are atypical for the usual presentation of celiac disease.
  • The patient's condition suggested a severe, possibly celiac crisis, manifestation.

Findings:

  • The case underscores that celiac crisis can occur in adults.
  • Tetany and bleeding diathesis can be presenting signs in adults with celiac crisis.
  • Diagnosis requires considering celiac crisis beyond its typical pediatric demographic.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should consider celiac crisis in adults presenting with severe, unusual symptoms.
  • Early recognition and management of celiac crisis are crucial for patient outcomes.
  • This case expands the known clinical spectrum of celiac disease complications.

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