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Dilated cardiomyopathy as the first presentation of coeliac disease: association or causation?
Peysh Patel1, Fraser Smith2, Niamh Kilcullen3
1Leeds General Infirmary, Leeds, UK peysh@doctors.org.uk.
Insights
Coeliac disease can manifest as dilated cardiomyopathy, a heart muscle condition. Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary care are crucial for managing this rare presentation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
Background:
- Dilated cardiomyopathy presents a clinical challenge in identifying causative mechanisms.
- Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten ingestion.
Observation:
- A 19-year-old male presented with dilated cardiomyopathy as the initial clinical manifestation of undiagnosed coeliac disease.
- Iron deficiency anaemia was a key indicator, prompting gastroenterological investigation and diagnosis.
Findings:
- The case highlights a potential link between coeliac disease and dilated cardiomyopathy.
- Pathophysiological mechanisms may involve nutritional deficiencies (e.g., iron) or autoimmune cross-reactivity leading to myocarditis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering gastrointestinal and autoimmune disorders in unexplained cardiomyopathy.
- Early multidisciplinary team involvement is recommended for optimal patient management and diagnostic strategies.
- Persistent ventricular dysfunction necessitates consideration for advanced cardiac care, including transplant evaluation.
Abstract:
Global ventricular impairment is a frequent presentation in clinical practice, but dissection of causative mechanisms from clinical associations is challenging. We present the case of a 19-year-old man who presented with dilated cardiomyopathy as the first presentation of coeliac disease. The manifestation of iron deficiency anaemia prompted gastroenterology input and enabled accurate diagnosis. It is unclear whether coeliac disease was simply coexistent or directly implicated in pathophysiology. Mechanisms may relate to nutritional deficiencies or autoimmune myocarditis arising from cross-reactivity. We advocate early multidisciplinary involvement in such contexts to aid with management strategy. Despite adherence to a gluten-free diet, ventricular dysfunction persisted and he has been referred to a cardiac transplant centre.
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