Neurological disorders and celiac disease.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Gastroenterology
• Immunology

Background:

• Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten ingestion.
• Neurologic manifestations affect approximately 10% of individuals with celiac disease.
• These manifestations can significantly impact quality of life and require specific diagnostic approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the most recent international literature on neurologic manifestations in celiac disease.
• To highlight common and less common neurological conditions associated with CD.
• To emphasize the importance of considering neurological symptoms in CD patients and during follow-up.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of recent studies on celiac disease and neurological complications.
• Analysis of reported clinical manifestations, including cerebellar ataxia, gluten encephalopathy, and peripheral neuropathies.
• Inclusion of emerging associations, such as with autism and non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS).

Main Results:

• Common neurological conditions include cerebellar ataxia, gluten encephalopathy, multiple sclerosis, peripheral neuropathies, sensorineural hearing loss, epilepsy, headache, depression, and cognitive deficiencies.
• Neurological symptoms can manifest even a year after initiating a gluten-free diet (GFD), as seen with peripheral neuropathy.
• The review explores potential links between celiac disease, autism, and non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

Conclusions:

• Neurological manifestations are a significant concern in celiac disease patients.
• Ongoing monitoring for neurological conditions is essential, even after adherence to a gluten-free diet.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms and management of these complex associations.