Coeliac disease: complications and comorbidities

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Immunology
• Autoimmune Disorders

Background:

• Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, causing small intestinal inflammation and villus atrophy.
• It affects approximately 1% of the global population.
• The gluten-free diet, while effective, presents challenges due to practical difficulties and inadvertent gluten exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the absolute and relative risks of disorders associated with coeliac disease.
• To discuss the underlying mechanisms of these complications.
• To explore the role of the gluten-free diet, mucosal healing, and non-dietary treatments in managing coeliac disease.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes data on coeliac-associated disorders.
• It examines underlying pathomechanisms.
• It evaluates the impact of dietary interventions and mucosal healing.

Main Results:

• Coeliac disease is linked to increased mortality and various complications, including growth issues, reproductive problems, kidney and liver diseases, respiratory conditions, infections, other autoimmune diseases, psychiatric disorders, and cancers.
• Mucosal healing on a gluten-free diet may mitigate some, but not all, complications.
• Individuals with coeliac disease face significant health risks beyond gastrointestinal symptoms.

Conclusions:

• Coeliac disease is a serious condition with widespread health implications.
• Effective management requires addressing potential complications and comorbidities.
• Further research into non-dietary treatments and optimizing gluten-free diet adherence is crucial for improving patient outcomes.