Celiac Disease in a 16-Month-Old Child Presenting as Motor Regression

Anam Bashir1, Youmna Mousattat1, April Lawson2

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, West Virginia University-Charleston/Charleston Area Medical Center, Charleston, WV.

ACG Case Reports Journal
|November 19, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Celiac disease (CD) can present with neurodevelopmental symptoms like motor regression in children. Early diagnosis and a gluten-free diet can significantly improve both gastrointestinal and neurological issues.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Pediatric Neurology

Background:

  • Celiac disease (CD) is typically diagnosed based on gastrointestinal symptoms.
  • Neurodevelopmental symptoms are considered rare presenting features of CD.

Observation:

  • A 16-month-old girl presented with postprandial vomiting and motor skill regression.
  • Clinical examination revealed abdominal distension, hypotonia, and reduced lower extremity motor function.

Findings:

  • Celiac serology indicated elevated tissue transglutaminase (tTG) IgA levels.
  • Esophagogastroduodenoscopy confirmed celiac disease via biopsies.
  • Neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms improved after initiating a gluten-free diet.

Implications:

  • Celiac disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis for children presenting with neurodevelopmental symptoms.
  • This case highlights the importance of a broad diagnostic approach in pediatric neurology and gastroenterology.

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