Celiac disease associated with B-cell lymphoma

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Oncology
• Immunology

Background:

• Celiac disease is an autoimmune enteropathy triggered by gluten ingestion.
• It is typically managed through strict gluten avoidance.
• Associations with T-cell lymphoma are recognized, but B-cell lymphoma is less common.

Observation:

• A patient with celiac disease presented with symptoms mimicking a duodenal ulcer.
• Endoscopic examination revealed findings consistent with the initial presentation.
• Persistent gastrointestinal symptoms despite adherence to a gluten-free diet raised suspicion for malignancy.

Findings:

• Further investigation confirmed an unusual co-occurrence of celiac disease and B-cell lymphoma.
• This case highlights a rare but significant association between these two conditions.
• B-cell lymphoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of refractory celiac disease.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering non-T-cell malignancies in refractory celiac disease.
• Early suspicion and comprehensive evaluation are vital for timely diagnosis and management.
• Awareness of this rare association may improve patient outcomes, particularly in specific demographics like female patients.