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Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Celiac Disease

For patients with celiac disease, eating gluten triggers an immune response in the small intestine.

Clinical Pearl of the Day: Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an immune reaction to eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.

Explanations:

  • In patients with celiac disease, eating gluten triggers an immune response in the small intestine.
  • Over time, this reaction damages the small intestine's lining and prevents it from absorbing some nutrients.
  • Symptoms include diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, bloating and gas, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, and constipation.
  • Risk factors include family members with celiac disease, type 1 diabetes, Down syndrome, autoimmune thyroid disease, microscopic colitis, and Addison disease.
  • Diagnosis includes serology testing and genetic testing.
  • Treatment includes a gluten-free diet and staying away from foods such as wheat, barley, malt, rye, semolina, and spelt.
  • Some patients may be prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs for possible inflammation.

Sources:

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