Related Experiment Videos
Copper deficiency in infants with active celiac disease
Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition
|August 1, 1985
Summary
Severe malnutrition in infants diagnosed with celiac disease (an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten) was linked to copper deficiency. Supplementing with copper sulfate alongside a gluten-free diet corrected these issues, suggesting copper monitoring for affected children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Nutritional Science
- Celiac Disease Research
Background:
- Celiac disease diagnosis in infants presents unique challenges.
- Severe malnutrition can mask or exacerbate other nutritional deficiencies.
- Early identification of complications is crucial for infant health.
Observation:
- Two infants, aged 7 and 7.5 months, presented with severe malnutrition and celiac disease.
- Clinical, biological, and histological findings were consistent with celiac disease.
- Accompanying hypocupremia (low copper levels) and neutropenia (low neutrophil count) suggested copper deficiency.
Findings:
- Bone radiographs supported the diagnosis of copper deficiency.
- Oral copper sulfate supplementation, combined with a gluten-free diet, rapidly and completely corrected the observed anomalies.
- Mechanisms for copper deficiency in celiac infants include malabsorption, high growth demands, and digestive losses.
Implications:
- Copper deficiency should be considered in infants with severe celiac disease.
- Monitoring copper status in these young patients is recommended.
- Early intervention with copper supplementation can prevent severe complications.