Updates in the diagnosis and management of coeliac disease

Coeliac disease is a systemic autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten ingestion in genetically susceptible individuals [1]. The primary affected organ in coeliac disease is the small intestine, where gluten peptides trigger an inappropriate T-cell-mediated immune response causing chronic inflammation and damage to the intestinal mucosa [1]. Coeliac disease affects ∼1% of the general population worldwide [2]. The prevalence and incidence of coeliac disease have been increasing over time, which has been attributed to increased awareness and testing [2,3]. However, it is estimated that the majority of patients with coeliac disease remain undiagnosed [4]. Undiagnosed coeliac disease is associated with an increased risk of nutritional deficiencies, osteoporosis, malignancy and mortality especially in the elderly [5]. The only available treatment is adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD) which can be challenging due to the ubiquitous nature of gluten in the food industry, and the socio-economic burden it poses on patients. In this review, we provide an overview of the diagnosis and management of coeliac disease.

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