Guide To The Most Common Autoimmune Diseases

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is a condition where the immune system has an abnormal and severe reaction to gluten, a protein found in many foods. This inappropriate and abnormal immune system reaction takes place in the small intestine. When this reaction occurs repeatedly, it causes extensive damage to the lining of the small intestine. The specialized lining of the small intestine has thousands of small finger-like projections that absorb nutrients from the food being consumed. These finger-like projections increase the amount of surface area inside of the small intestine to maximize its absorption abilities. When this lining is damaged due to celiac disease, patients experience symptoms related to malabsorption such as fatigue, diarrhea, bloating, weight loss, and anemia. Diagnosis of celiac disease is made with the use of genetic testing, serology testing, endoscopy, capsule endoscopy, and intestinal tissue biopsy.

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