Celiac disease

Celiac disease, also called celiac sprue of adults, is understood as (auto)-immune disease of people with genetic predisposition which is triggered by gluten in wheat and similar proteins in rye, barley and oat.

The disease manifests itself mainly by complaints that cause the atrophy of the villi and the associated lack of absorption of nutrients. Symptoms include poor growth, diarrhea and nutritional deficiencies to lighter, non-specific manifestations such as anemia, bloating or discomfort in the digestive tract.

In some cases, the disease occurs as a silent celiac disease of patients showing no symptoms. For this reason, celiac disease, despite its relatively high frequency is often not diagnosed.

The only possible treatment is a consistent gluten-free diet. Most patients can lead a life without health problems if they stick to the diet.