Psychological Comorbidities in Childhood Celiac Disease: A Systematic Review

Mental health disorders comorbid to chronic illness are associated with higher medical care utilization and costs for adults and children. Celiac disease (CD) has a substantial perceived treatment burden and is associated with higher rates of psychopathology in adults. However, establishing the risk for psychological comorbidities in children with CD is still needed. This study aimed to review existing research on mental health concerns in pediatric CD and propose an initial psychosocial research and clinical agenda.

Databases, including Scopus and PubMed. Additional publications were accessed and reviewed from the references provided by initially identified publications. Two investigators screened studies using predetermined criteria (peer-reviewed, published in English, electronically available, inclusive of child participants, and examining CD). One investigator initially extracted data, with subsequent review by the second investigator.

Twenty-six publications met criteria for the current review (16 case-control, 9 observational, and 1 clinical trial). Publications were heterogeneous in symptoms examined, methodology, and population characteristics. Several studies found elevated risk for psychological comorbidities and poorer quality of life in children with CD. However, many studies were limited by small sample sizes and inconsistent or nonvalidated approaches to measuring psychological symptoms.

Many existing studies have found increased prevalence of comorbid CD and psychological symptoms or diagnoses. Therefore, screening for psychological symptoms in CD and also screening for CD in psychological clinic populations is needed. We have identified the importance for further study of mechanisms and risk, and identify preliminary priorities for psychosocial research and clinical care in pediatric CD.