Gluten-related disorders

Gluten-Related Disorders: An In-Depth Look

Gluten-related disorders encompass a spectrum of medical conditions that result from the consumption of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. This article covers celiac disease (CD), non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), gluten ataxia, dermatitis herpetiformis (DH), and wheat allergy, which are all conditions under this umbrella term.

Introduction

Grains such as wheat, barley, and rye contain gluten, which can trigger disorders in sensitive individuals.

Gluten-related disorders are triggered by the ingestion of gluten in susceptible individuals. While celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder, non-celiac gluten sensitivity is not well understood, and gluten ataxia and dermatitis herpetiformis are rare conditions. Wheat allergy is an allergic response to wheat proteins, including but not limited to gluten.

Celiac Disease (CD)

Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. It affects genetically predisposed people and can cause a variety of symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal issues to neurological problems.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Common symptoms include diarrhea, bloating, gas, anemia, and growth issues in children. Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of serological blood tests and an intestinal biopsy.

Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)

Non-celiac gluten sensitivity can cause symptoms similar to celiac disease but without the intestinal damage.

NCGS is a condition wherein individuals experience symptoms related to gluten ingestion but do not have celiac disease or wheat allergy. Symptoms can be similar to celiac disease but do not include the autoimmune intestinal damage.

Gluten Ataxia

Gluten ataxia is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by the loss of control of bodily movements, and it is directly linked to gluten consumption. It affects the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls coordination.

Dermatitis Herpetiformis (DH)

Dermatitis herpetiformis is a chronic blistering skin condition, characterized by blisters filled with a watery fluid. Despite its name, it is not related to the herpes virus but is associated with gluten sensitivity.

Treatment

The main treatment for DH is a lifelong gluten-free diet, which can alleviate the symptoms and prevent complications.

Wheat Allergy

Wheat allergy is an allergic reaction to proteins found in wheat, including gluten. It is different from celiac disease and NCGS as it involves an IgE-mediated immune response.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms can include itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Diagnosis is made through skin prick tests, blood tests, and oral food challenges.

Conclusion

The term "gluten intolerance" has historically been used to describe these conditions; however, it is non-specific and is now avoided in professional medical literature. Accurate diagnosis and treatment of gluten-related disorders require careful medical evaluation and testing.

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