[The extraintestinal spectrum of gluten sensitivity]

Area of Science:

• Autoimmune disorders
• Gastroenterology
• Systemic diseases

Background:

• Celiac disease (gluten-sensitive enteropathy) is often misunderstood as solely a gastrointestinal condition.
• It is a multi-systemic autoimmune disorder with diverse clinical presentations.
• Misconceptions about celiac disease, including its prevalence in children, lead to delayed diagnosis in adults and the elderly.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the literature on the extraintestinal manifestations of gluten sensitivity.
• To provide an overview of less recognized symptoms of celiac disease in adults.
• To raise awareness among physicians regarding the broader spectrum of celiac disease.

Main Methods:

• Literature review
• Synthesis of existing research on celiac disease manifestations
• Overview of clinical presentations

Main Results:

• Celiac disease presents with a wide range of symptoms beyond the gastrointestinal tract.
• Neurologic, cardiovascular, hepatobiliary, and hematologic systems are commonly involved.
• Adults may have less pronounced gastrointestinal symptoms, leading to diagnostic challenges.

Conclusions:

• Celiac disease is a systemic autoimmune disorder requiring broader clinical recognition.
• Extra-intestinal manifestations are common and crucial for diagnosing adult celiac disease.
• Increased physician awareness of these diverse symptoms is essential for timely diagnosis and management.