Celiac Disease

Treatment of Children

Proper diagnosis and careful management can help children who have celiac disease lead fulfilling and productive lives. Some children are genetically susceptible to this disease, which affects one in every 100 children.

Celiac is considered a "silent" disease, since it may damage the lining of a child's intestines without producing any symptoms. Once the lining of the intestines is damaged, the body has difficulty absorbing nutrients. Lack of nutrients may eventually cause serious vitamin deficiencies, which in turn can affect the nervous system, bone, liver, and other organs. Left undiagnosed, this condition can lead to complications such as cancer, osteoporosis, anemia and seizures.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis begins with a careful examination by specialists in Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology and dietetics. Blood tests and samples of the intestine are evaluated to determine whether the patient's symptoms are due to celiac disease. Using an endoscope (a small, thin tube inserted into the esophagus), physicians obtain a tissue sample and also examine the patient's villi, small food-absorbing structures that line the intestines.

Treatment Options

Treatment for celiac disease is essentially the same for children and adults. Managing diet is the only way to control celiac disease. Children and parents work with a dietician to develop a gluten-free diet plan. The diet includes items such as fresh meats, dairy products, fruits and vegetables, and excludes anything containing gluten, including wheat, barley, malt, and rye. All patients are also offered genetic counseling.

For more severe cases of celiac disease, such as refractory celiac sprue, medications may be necessary to control symptoms such as itching, blistering and flaking (caused by malnutrition), and other vitamin deficiency issues.

Appointments

For appointments or more information, call the Central Appointment Office at (507) 538-3270 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central time Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday.