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[Oligosymptomatic sprue--report of 4 cases]
A Föller1, H Kreiter, V Hammann
1Medizinische Klinik I Klinikum der Universitätsstadt Kaiserslautern.
Leber, Magen, Darm
|September 1, 1993
Summary
Oligosymptomatic celiac disease can present with isolated malabsorption, such as iron deficiency anemia or osteomalacia, without typical symptoms. Small bowel biopsy is crucial for diagnosing these atypical celiac disease cases.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Internal Medicine
- Clinical Diagnostics
Background:
- Celiac disease diagnosis typically relies on classic symptoms like diarrhea and steatorrhea.
- Atypical presentations of celiac disease can pose diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- Four cases of oligosymptomatic celiac disease were observed over 5 years.
- Patients presented with isolated malabsorption manifestations, including refractory iron deficiency anemia and osteomalacia with fractures.
- Typical celiac disease symptoms were absent in all observed cases.
Findings:
- Microscopic features and tissue antibodies confirmed celiac disease in all patients.
- Gluten-free diet intervention led to symptom resolution.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering celiac disease in unexplained malabsorption, even without overt symptoms.
- Emphasizes the diagnostic value of small bowel biopsy for identifying atypical celiac disease.
- Underscores the effectiveness of a gluten-free diet in managing oligosymptomatic celiac disease.