Celiac Disease and Non-celiac Gluten Sensitivity

Abstract

Patients with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity have similar symptoms which improve on a gluten-free diet. However, what we know about each condition differs greatly. In celiac disease, gluten triggers immune-mediated intestinal inflammation. Serum tissue transglutaminase antibodies and duodenal biopsies are the principal diagnostic tests. Micronutrient deficiencies and consequences such as anemia and bone disease are common. The only treatment is a lifelong gluten-free diet. In contrast, there are no known diagnostic tests for or complications of non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Patients often start a gluten-free diet on their own, making the celiac disease diagnosis more challenging.