Celiac Disease

Question

Celiac disease:
A) Is a disease of the colon.
B) Is easy to diagnose because of severe pain in the stomach.
C) Affects men twice as frequently as women.
D) Is probably caused by the immunologic reaction to the gliadin fraction.

Accepted Answer

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder of the small intestine triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. The immunological reaction is triggered by the gliadin fraction of gluten, causing damage to the intestinal lining and leading to malabsorption of nutrients. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. It is more common in women than men.