What is celiac disease?

Celiac disease is a serious systemic autoimmune condition, rather than a simple food allergy or a common intolerance. At the heart of the pathology is a genetic predisposition where the consumption of the protein gluten, found in wheat, rye, and barley, triggers a destructive attack by the immune system on the body's own tissues.

The main target in celiac disease is the small intestine, specifically its villi, which become inflamed, flattened, and atrophy under the influence of gluten. This leads to severe disruption in the absorption of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, which affects the functioning of the entire body.

Clinical manifestations of the disease are extremely diverse and can vary greatly from person to person. Frequent symptoms include chronic diarrhea, abdominal bloating, iron deficiency anemia that does not respond to conventional treatments, as well as constant fatigue, weakness, and weight loss.

For an accurate diagnosis of celiac disease, the doctor prescribes a comprehensive examination. It includes specific blood tests for antibodies to tissue transglutaminase and endomysium, while the gold standard of diagnostics remains a biopsy of the small intestinal mucosa taken during a gastroscopy.

The only effective treatment method to date is a lifelong and strict gluten-free diet. Complete elimination of gluten-containing products allows the intestinal mucosa to fully recover and prevents the development of dangerous complications, including gastrointestinal malignancies.