Celiac Disease

Celiac Disease

Author: Sonja Jonsson

Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system reacts to gluten – a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Globally, its prevalence varies, but estimates suggest that 1–2% of the world's population may have celiac disease, even though many remain undiagnosed. 

Symptoms of celiac disease 

For patients with celiac disease, the immune reaction causes inflammation in the small intestine and damage to the intestinal villi, which impairs nutrient absorption. Symptoms vary greatly among individuals and can be both gastrointestinal and more general. Common gastrointestinal symptoms include diarrhea, bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, and nausea/vomiting. Outside the gastrointestinal tract, symptoms can include fatigue, low mood, weight loss, osteoporosis, infertility, skin rashes, and neurological issues such as numbness. 

Diagnosing celiac disease 

The diagnosis of celiac disease in adults is based on a combination of clinical signs, blood tests for specific antibodies (e.g., anti-transglutaminase IgA), a biopsy of the small intestinal lining, and in some cases, genetic tests. Often, the first step is a blood test, and if the result is positive, the diagnosis is typically confirmed with a gastroscopy where biopsies are taken from the small intestine. In some cases, genetic tests are also used as part of the celiac disease investigation. It is important for the patient to continue eating gluten during the investigation, as a gluten-free diet can affect test results. 

Current treatment for celiac disease 

The only effective treatment for celiac disease today is a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. By avoiding gluten, the intestinal lining heals and symptoms disappear. This treatment requires careful dietary management and often support from a dietitian. Gluten-free alternatives are available for most foods, but these can be more expensive and sometimes less nutritious. Regular follow-up is recommended to ensure nutritional status and adherence. 

Why is it important to develop new treatment methods for celiac disease? 

Although a gluten-free diet is effective, several challenges remain. Many patients experience symptoms despite a strict gluten-free diet, often due to accidental gluten exposure. Gluten-free products can be low in nutrients and lead to deficiencies in, for example, iron, folic acid, B12, and vitamin D. Furthermore, the diet is socially restrictive and can negatively impact quality of life. There is a great need for complementary treatments that can protect the gut from accidental gluten intake or modulate the immune response.  

CTC's experience in celiac disease research 

CTC has conducted several drug trials at its clinics around Sweden, involving patients with biopsy-verified celiac disease. CTC's role has included patient recruitment, conducting clinical visits, sampling, and follow-up. As research into various molecular targets for celiac disease is extensive, there is great hope that alternative treatments to a gluten-free diet can be found in the near future. CTC regularly receives requests to conduct trials of new treatment methods for celiac disease and would like to see more patients with celiac disease express their interest in participating in studies that could improve the quality of life for patients with celiac disease. 

Do you want to participate in studies at CTC?

When you register with our database, you will receive information about upcoming or ongoing studies that match your profile. Once you have expressed your interest in participating, our staff will contact you. Your participation is completely voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time.