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Celiac disease
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Condition

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is a common autoimmune disorder characterized by an abnormal sensitivity to gluten, causing immune-mediated inflammation and damage to the small intestine.

Overview

Celiac disease is a condition in which the immune system is abnormally sensitive to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. As an autoimmune disorder, it occurs when the immune system malfunctions and attacks the body's own tissues and organs. Without a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet, the resulting inflammation from immune system overactivity can cause a wide variety of signs and symptoms.

Symptoms and Clinical Features

Celiac disease can develop at any age after an individual begins consuming foods containing gluten. The symptoms and complications of the condition vary widely:

Classic Celiac Disease

The classic symptoms result from inflammation affecting the gastrointestinal tract. This inflammation damages the villi, which are small, finger-like projections lining the small intestine that absorb nutrients. When the villi are damaged, it leads to poor absorption of nutrients and several gastrointestinal symptoms:

  • Diarrhea and weight loss
  • Abdominal pain and swelling (distention)

Frequently Asked Questions

Celiac disease can present with a wide range of symptoms beyond classic gastrointestinal issues. These can include unexplained iron-deficiency anemia, fatigue, bone or joint pain, skin rash (dermatitis herpetiformis), mouth sores, nerve damage (neuropathy), headaches, infertility, missed menstrual periods, or dental enamel defects. In children, it might manifest as delayed growth, irritability, or behavioral problems.
Diagnosis typically starts with blood tests that look for specific antibodies, such as tissue transglutaminase IgA (tTG-IgA) and total IgA. It is crucial to continue eating a gluten-containing diet before these tests, as avoiding gluten can lead to false-negative results. If blood tests are positive, a small intestine biopsy, usually performed via endoscopy, is then recommended to confirm the diagnosis by looking for characteristic damage to the villi.
The cornerstone of managing celiac disease is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. This means avoiding all foods containing wheat, rye, and barley. Common foods to avoid include most breads, pastas, cereals, crackers, and many processed foods. It's essential to read food labels carefully and be aware of hidden sources of gluten in sauces, marinades, and even some medications or supplements. Naturally gluten-free foods like fruits, vegetables, plain meats, fish, rice, and corn are safe.
Failing to adhere to a strict gluten-free diet can lead to ongoing damage to the small intestine, resulting in chronic nutrient deficiencies, anemia, osteoporosis, and an increased risk of other autoimmune disorders. In rare cases, prolonged untreated celiac disease can also increase the risk of certain cancers, such as small bowel lymphoma.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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