Patient EducationJul | 1 | 2022
What is celiac disease? The well-known, yet misunderstood, condition affects an estimated 1 in 133 Americans, many of them children. Here, experts from the Center for Celiac Research and Treatment at review the common misconceptions, signs and symptoms, and management of the disorder.
Fact 1: Although some symptoms may be similar, celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that occurs in patients with compatible genetics caused by ingestion of gluten-containing grains (wheat, rye and barley). There are two genes for celiac disease. These genes are called human leukocyte antigen (HLA) DQ2 and DQ8. Many people who have celiac disease have at least one of these genes. In very rare cases, a person will not have these genes but might develop celiac disease anyway.
Celiac disease can present with over 200 physiological and behavioral symptoms and impacts 1% of the world’s population.
Fact 2: Celiac disease can develop at any age, and it affects children and adults in all parts of the world. Approximately 33% of the general population has the genetic predisposition for celiac disease. Yet, only about 1% will develop the condition. Due to the genetic link, patients who have a family history should get tested routinely. Individuals with celiac disease cannot outgrow the disease since it is a lifelong autoimmune disorder like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.
Fact 3: Celiac disease is triggered by eating foods containing gluten. The only available treatment is removal of gluten from the diet, so people who have been diagnosed must avoid foods with the following ingredients:
Also, many processed foods may contain "hidden" gluten, such as soups, salad dressings, energy bars and other products.
Fact 4: Historically, celiac disease has been shown to be more common among Caucasian patients. However, research shows that Black and other minority-group populations are under-represented in clinical trials and diagnostic testing. Celiac disease is present in all populations. Therefore, any patient presenting with symptoms that are suggestive of celiac disease should receive testing from their health providers.
Patient resources for the Center for Celiac Research and Treatment
Researchers have identified a strain of Bacteroides vulgatus that may protect the gut intestinal barrier against the break of tolerance that occurs when gluten is introduced into the diet of genetically at-risk children.
Researchers from Mass General for Children and Italy have identified a potential biomarker preceding the development of celiac disease autoimmunity in children.
The funding will help researchers better understand how a person tips over from gluten tolerance to celiac disease, and for understanding how autoimmune disorders develop in infants.
The Center for Celiac Research and Treatment at Mass General for Children provides programs and positive messaging to educate the public and debunk common myths about celiac disease.
Transitioning to college or university is one of life’s major milestones. Like all life changes, the move from home to campus brings a unique set of challenges. Here are some tips to support your pre-planning and research for gluten-free dining around campus.
Approximately 1% of the world’s population have celiac disease. Hear one patient's story on the realities of her symptoms and diagnosis, as well as how she received world-class treatment at the Center for Celiac Research and Treatment at Mass General for Children.
