Coeliac Disease Flashcards
What type of condition is coeliac disease?
Chronic autoimmune.
What are the key features of coeliac disease?
Chronic inflammation of the small intestine. Malabsorption of nutrients.
What are the symptoms of coeliac disease?
Diarrhoea. Bloating. Abdominal pain.
Describe the aetiology of coeliac disease.
Abnormal abdominal response in the intestinal mucosa caused by dietary proteins called glutens. This leads to malabsorption of nutrients.
What complications may be associated with malabsorption of nutrients associated with coeliac disease?
Complications caused by malnutrition of nutrients. Osteoporosis due to malabsorption of calcium and vitamin D.
What are the aims of coeliac disease treatment?
Eliminating symptoms. Reducing the risk of complications, including them from malabsorption.
When should coeliac disease be referred to a specialist?
When it is confirmed as refractory.
Before specialist advice for refractory coeliac disease, treatment for which drug can be considered?
Prednisolone.
Ongoing treatment of bone disease should form a part of the management plan for coeliac disease. What is it important to make patient’s aware of?
Patient’s should be advised not to self-medicate with supplements.
What is the mainstay of treatment for coeliac disease?
A strict, life-long gluten free diet. Gluten free products are available on prescription.
In which cereals is gluten present?
Wheat, barley and rye.
