Coeliac disease: symptoms, complications and patient support

Holmes, Susan

Susan Holmes, director of research and development, Faculty of Health and Social Care, Canterbury Christ Church University, Kent. Email: [email protected]

Date of acceptance: November 26 2009.

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Nursing Standard 24(35):p 50-56, May 5, 2010.

Summary

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune inflammatory disease of the small intestine precipitated by ingestion of gluten in genetically susceptible individuals. Simply defined as ‘gluten-sensitive enteropathy’, it is a lifelong disease, which, if untreated, is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis and management are important to minimise complications.