What is celiac disease (セリアック病), and what are its key characteristics and symptoms?
Answered on : 2024-01-24
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Celiac disease, known as セリアック病 in Japanese, is a genetic autoimmune disorder triggered by an abnormal immune response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It results in inflammation and damage to the small intestine's lining, specifically the villi, leading to malabsorption of nutrients. Key characteristics and symptoms of celiac disease include:
1. **Digestive Issues**: Celiac disease often causes digestive problems such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating.
2. **Weight Loss**: Unexplained weight loss is common due to the malabsorption of nutrients.
3. **Nutritional Deficiencies**: The inability to absorb nutrients may lead to various nutritional deficiencies, including iron deficiency anemia.
4. **Flat Mucosa**: Damage to the small intestine can result in the flattening of mucosa, impairing its nutrient absorption function.
5. **Autoimmune Reaction**: It is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own small intestine.
6. **Wide Range of Symptoms**: Celiac disease can have a broad range of symptoms, affecting not only the digestive system but also other parts of the body, such as skin rashes, joint pain, and fatigue.
7. **Lifetime Condition**: It is a lifelong condition, and the only effective treatment is a strict gluten-free diet.
Celiac disease is a serious condition that requires proper diagnosis and management by a healthcare professional. It's essential for individuals with celiac disease to adhere to a gluten-free diet to prevent symptoms and complications [1, 2].
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