[Intestinal flora in children with celiac disease]

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Celiac Disease Research

Context:

• Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten ingestion, affecting the small intestine.
• The duodeno-jejunal bacterial flora's role in celiac disease pathogenesis is not fully understood.
• Previous studies have suggested alterations in gut microbiota composition in celiac patients.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the variations in duodeno-jejunal bacterial flora in children with celiac disease at different stages.
• To compare bacterial counts and species in children with active celiac disease, those on a gluten-free diet, and those challenged with gluten.

Summary:

• This study analyzed duodeno-jejunal bacterial flora in 26 children (aged 2-7) with celiac disease, divided into three groups: active disease (free diet), gluten-free diet (1 year), and gluten challenge.
• Bacteriological examination of duodenal juice samples used various culture media, including Fluid Thioglycollate Medium, Blood-agar, Bile Esculin Azide Agar, SF, and MacConkey Agar.
• Results showed significantly higher bacterial numbers in children with active celiac disease (p<0.001) and those challenged with gluten (p<0.05) compared to the gluten-free group with normal mucosa.
• No significant variations in specific bacterial species were observed across the groups.

Impact:

• Excessive bacterial growth in active celiac disease may impair the absorption of lipids, vitamins, and iron.
• Increased bacterial load could exacerbate local inflammatory processes within the small intestine.
• Findings highlight the potential impact of bacterial overgrowth on celiac disease severity and associated complications.