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Coeliac disease presenting with intestinal pseudo-obstruction
Gut
|September 1, 1984
Summary
A young woman
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology and immunology.
Background:
- Recurrent intestinal pseudo-obstruction can present diagnostic challenges.
- Differentiating primary versus secondary causes is crucial for effective management.
Observation:
- A 22-year-old woman experienced recurrent intestinal pseudo-obstruction.
- Jejunal biopsy revealed subtotal villous atrophy.
Findings:
- Symptoms and villous atrophy significantly improved with total parenteral nutrition and steroid treatment.
- The condition did not relapse on a gluten-free diet, suggesting celiac disease.
Implications:
- This case highlights celiac disease as a potential cause of secondary intestinal pseudo-obstruction.
- Accurate diagnosis is essential to guide appropriate dietary and medical interventions.
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