Coeliac Disease
Coeliac disease (also called gluten sensitive enteropathy) is a
condition in which the lining of the small intestine is abnormal
but improves once gluten (a protein found in wheat, rye and barley)
is removed from the diet. Damage to the lining can lead to impaired
absorption of nutrients.
Symptoms vary from person to person and can include:
- diarrhoea
- weight loss
- excessive gas
- abdominal discomfort
In the mildest form no symptoms may be obvious. Blood tests that
detect certain antibodies can suggest the diagnosis which needs to
be confirmed by examining a sample of the lining of the small bowel
under the microscope. The sample (biopsy) is taken during a gastroscopy. The
common antibody tests are endomysial and/or tissue
transglutaminase. Treatment involves complete avoidance of
gluten.
For further information see the Coeliac Society of
New Zealand website.