Celiac Disease, Management, and Follow-Up

Abstract

Celiac disease (CD) is a systemic immune-mediated disorder characterized by a specific serological and histological profile triggered by gluten ingestion, which is given in genetically predisposed subjects. Heterogeneous clinical presentation is characteristic in CD, affecting any organ or tissue with gastrointestinal, extraintestinal, seronegative, or nonresponsive manifestations. CD diagnosis is based on several criteria, including genetic and serological tests, clinical symptoms and/or risk conditions, and duodenal biopsy. Currently, the available treatment for CD is a strict gluten-free diet (GFD) that essentially relies on the consumption of naturally gluten-free foods, such as animal-based products, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts, as well as gluten-free dietary products that may not contain more than 20 mg of gluten per kg of food according to Codex Alimentarius. However, it is difficult to maintain a strict oral diet for life and at least one-third of patients with CD are exposed to gluten. Difficulties adhering to a GFD have led to new tools to monitor the correct adherence to GFD and alternative forms of treatment.