Coeliac Disease Flashcards
(5 cards)
What is coeliac disease?
Autoimmune condition characterised by damage to epithelial cells of small intestine and atrophy to villi, resulting in malabsorption
Caused by autoantibody creation in response to gluten intake
What autoantibodies are associated with Coeliac DiseasE?
Anti TTG
Anti EMA
Antu DGP
Which part of the small intestine does coeliac disease particularly affect?
Jejunum
Signs and symptoms of coeliac disease?
Failure to thrive
Diarrhea
Bloating
Fatigue
Weight loss
Mouth ulcers
Dermatitis herpetiformis - itchy blistering skin rash on knees, elbows, natal cleft
Anaemia
Rare: peripheral neuropathy, cerebellar ataxia, epilepsy
Investigations for coeliac disease?
Keep eating gluten whilst being investigated!!
Blood tests:
Total IgA levels (Exclude IgA deficiency)
Anti TTG antibodies
If results of above are inaccurate: check Anti EMA
Endoscopy and Jejunal Biopsy:
Crypt hyperplasia
Villous atrophy
