Definition of Celiac disease - sprue:

Celiac disease is an inherited, autoimmune disease in which the lining of the small intestine is damaged from eating gluten and other proteins found in wheat, barley, rye, and possibly oats.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The exact cause of celiac disease is unknown. The intestines contain projections (called villi) that absorb nutrients. In undiagnosed or untreated celiac disease, these villi become flattened. This affects the ability to absorb nutrients properly.

The disease can develop at any point in life, from infancy to late adulthood.

Those with a family member with celiac disease are at greater risk for developing the disease. The disorder is most common in Caucasians and those of European ancestry. Women are affected more commonly than men.

There are numerous diseases and conditions associated with celiac disease, including:

• Anemia
• Autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus
• Certain types of intestinal cancer
• Dermatitis herpetiformis
• Down syndrome
• Lactose intolerance
• Miscarriage or unexplained infertility
• Neurological conditions
• Osteoporosis or osteopenia
• Thyroid disease
• Type 1 diabetes