Celiac Facts for Patients

Antibodies against native gliadin peptides.

A substance (protein) that can cause an allergic reaction.

Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins.

Association of European Coeliac Societies.

This is a neurological sign characterized by lack of voluntary coordination of muscle movements that includes gait abnormality

Proteins made by the immune cells against own body tissue during a disease.

In autoimmune liver disorders the body's immune system attacks the liver and bile ducts leading to impaired functioning of these organs.

Thyroid autoimmunity can manifest as excessive or reduced function of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland produces hormones that mainly influence metabolic rate and protein synthesis.

A class of water-soluble vitamins that play important roles in cell metabolism.The complex includes pantothenic acid, niacin, biotin, folic acid, riboflavin (vitamin B2), thiamin (vitamin B1), vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 (cobalamin).

The examination of tissue or cells removed from the body to study the presence, cause or extent of a disease. The examination is usually done under a microsocpe and in some cases with chemical analyses. There are different types of biopsies: in some, only very small tissue samples are needed, while sometimes larger tissue samples or a suspicious lump is removed entirely.

Calcium is a mineral that is found naturally in foods, particularly dairy products provide high amounts. Calcium is necessary for many normal functions of your body, especially bone formation and maintenance.

A term for diseases in which abnormal cells divide without control and can invade nearby tissues. Cancer cells can also spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymph systems.

Carbohydrates are one of the three macronutrients (along with proteins and fats) which make up our foods. They are essentially sugar molecules in various combinations. Starch, a very long chain of sugar molecules, is the most common carbohydrate in our diet.

The inability of the heart to pump blood efficiently to the organs and tissues where it is needed.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels.

A very rare, but serious complication of untreated celiac disease that is characterized by acute and severe gastrointestinal symptoms, together with signs of dehydration and malnutrition. It requires treatment in the hospital with intravenous fluids.

Thread-like structures located inside the nucleus of our cells, containing genetic information written in DNA molecules which provide the construction plan of our body.

Also called bleeding disorder. The ability of the blood to form clots is impaired, leading to prolonged and excessive bleeding.

This is a pitlike depression or tubular recess in the intestinal epithelium lining of the small and large intestine.

Is an increase in the length of crypts in the organic tissue that results from cell proliferation.

Severe, itching skin rash associated with celiac disease.

Glucose syrup is made from starch. Glucose syrup is used in foods to sweeten, soften texture and add volume. It is gluten-free, independently from the cereal/biological source it is made from.

Antibodies against deamidated gliadin peptides, which are part of the gluten-protein. "Deamidated" means the body's own enzyme called tissue-transglutaminase has already chemically modified the original gliadin-structure.

Dermatitis herpetiformis Duhring.Severe, itchy skin rash associated with celiac disease.

Twins that develop from two different egg cells. Another term is "non-identical twins" or "fraternal twins".

A clinical trial or test involving human participants and testing a certain treatment or intervention in comparison to placebo. In order to avoid any subjective interpretation, neither the study investigators nor the investigated participant know who is getting which treatment. After all data have been collected and data analyses have been completed, de-blinding of the allocation to the intervention groups is done to see which treatment was more effective.

Condition based on chromosomal abnormality as there are three copies of chromosme 21 instead of two. Some degree of intellectual disability, small stature, low muscle tone among with characteristic physical features (flat face, slanting eyes, small mouth with a protruding tongue etc.).

First part of the small intestine, important for absorption of different nutrients.

Antibodies against endomysium.

IgA class auto-antibodies against endomysium. Antibodies (=immunoglobulins) of class IgA against endomysium; this is a very specific blood marker for celiac disease, however it's not a standard parameter and the analysis needs to be performed by an experienced lab technician, therefore it is not available in all laboratories.

Means "within the muscle" and is a layer of connective tissue that surrounds each individual muscle cell.

A medical procedure using an endoscope, which is an illuminated optical, typically slender and tubular instrument, to look deep into different the body regions, e.g. into the gut.

Different types of enzymes have different functions in our body, e.g. some act like tiny scissors that further break down the food components or modify certain molecules.

European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition

Secretion of body glands to external surfaces which are in contact with the environment, e.g. the sweat which is made by glands in the skin skin or digestive juices which are produced by the pancreas and released into the the gut to break down the food components.

Fat is one of the three macronutrients within our food.There are different kinds of fat that we consume in our diet: Saturated fat, trans fat and unsaturated fat. Unsaturated fat is generally more healthy than saturated fat and trans fat.

Fat-soluble vitamins are those which disperse and are stored in fat. Vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble vitamins. In contrast to water-soluble vitamins, fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the body. Because they can build up over long periods of time, it's possible to develop a toxicity from over-consumption.

Parts of fruits, vegetables and grains that cannot be digested. Fiber is of vital importance to support digestion; it helps the body move food through the digestive tract.

Fermentable Oligo-, Di-, Mono-saccharides and Polyols. Are types of short carbohydrates which are only poorly absorbed in the small intestine. They are instead transported into the colon where they are fermented by gut bacteria. Foods high in FODMAPS are grains (wheat, barley, rye), some vegetables (beetroot, fennel, peas), legumes, dairy and many fruits. A low FODMAP diet should never be initiated without indication from a doctor and consultation with a dietitian/nutritionist.

Is also known as folic acid and vitamin B9. It belongs to the group of the B-vitamins.

Physician who is a specialist in diseases of the digestive system.

Construction plan for each molecule which form our body structures or are responsible for metabolism.

Part of the gluten-molecule.

Glucose syrup is made from starch. Glucose syrup is used in foods to sweeten, soften texture and add volume. It is gluten-free, independently from the cereal/biological source it is made from.

This is often confused with gluten. It is however an amino acid (=building block of a protein) and should not be confused with gluten. Another frequently used misspelling of gluten is the term "glutein".

The Glycemic Index (GI) is a relative ranking of carbohydrate in foods according to how they affect blood sugar levels.

Gout is a type of arthritis that causes inflammation, usually in one joint, that begins suddenly. Gouty arthritis is caused by the deposition of crystals of uric acid in a joint.

The HbA1c test is a blood test that correlates with a person’s average blood glucose level over a span of a few months. It is used as a screening and diagnostic test for prediabetes and diabetes.

Heart disease describes a range of conditions that affect your heart, including blood vessel diseases, such as coronary artery disease; heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias); and inborn heart defects (congenital heart defects), among others.

Examination of the tissue under the microscope.

Human Leukocyte Antigen. A gene complex encoding the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) proteins in humans. These cell-surface proteins are responsible for the regulation of the immune system in humans.

One of the specific gene variants which are strongly associated with celiac disease.

Human Leukocyte Antigen DQ2/DQ8.Specific gene variants of HLA which are strongly associated with celiac disease and also other autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes.

One of the specific gene variants which are strongly associated with celiac disease.

Breeding of plants or animals of different varieties, species, or races; also called crossbreed.

An abnormally high level of glucose (sugar) in the blood.

An abnormally  low level of glucose (sugar) in the blood.

An abnormally low level of prtoeins in the blood. It can have several causes, for example a very low protein intake, malabsorption or different diseases such as liver or kidney disease. The consequence of hypoproteinemia is the occurrence of edema, i.e. swelling in different parts of the body due to an abnormal accumulation of fluid.

Impaired function of the spleen, resulting in increased risk for infections.

Intraepithelial lymphocytes. Special immune cells found in the mucosa, e.g. in the gastrointestinal tract and in the reproductive tract. As soon as they encounter proteins that they consider a potential danger, e.g. bacteria or allergens, they react by killing infected cells. The number of intraepithelial lymphocytes is elevated in ongoing inflammation, e.g. in celiac disease.

Immunoglobulin A. Antibodies (immunoglobulins) of type A. This type is mostly found in mucous membranes, e.g. in the small intestine, respiratory tract and even in tears and saliva.

Immunglobulin A antibodies. There are five types of antibodies in our body called immunoglobulins (Ig), namely IgA, IgM, IgD, IgE and IgG. IgA protects us against infections of the mucous membranes, lining respiratory, genital and digestive tract.

Immunoglobulin E. Antibodies (immunoglobulins) of type E. This type is involved in the development of allergies. It is the least abundant type of antibodies, but it can elicit a very powerful immune response.

Immunoglobulin G. Antibodies (immunoglobulins) of type G. Of all antibodies, about 80% are IgG antibodies, making them pivotal for a well functioning immune response.

A defense system of our body, comprising many biological structures and processes within an organism. It is responsible for distinguishing a person from everything foreign to him or her and for protecting his or her body against infections and foreign substances e.g. viruses and bacteria.

Is another word for antibody. Immunoglobulins are produced by special immune cells. Immunoglobulins attach to foreign substances, like bacteria or viruses, to help destroy them. There are different classes of immunoglobulins (IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG and IgM), but they all have the same task to neutralize pathogens. 

A complex biological response of body tissue that produces redness, warmth, swelling, and pain as a result of infection, irritation, or injury. Inflammation can be external or internal.

A natural hormone made by the pancreas that controls the level of the sugar glucose in the blood by allowing the uptake of glucose in the cells of our body.

Studies which usually randomly allocate the participants in groups which get different predefined treatment, e.g. different protocols of gluten-introduction. The study participants are then followed for a long period and in a controlled setting. These studies are performed to test specific hypotheses. With these studies, you can establish or rebut a cause-effect-relationship. All these studies must obtain permission form an ethical committee, regardless if the intervention comprises medication or not.

Special immune cells found in the mucosa, e.g. in the gastrointestinal tract and in the reproductive tract. As soon as they encounter proteins that they consider a potential danger, e.g. bacteria or allergens, they react by killing infected cells. The number of intraepithelial lymphocytes is elevated in ongoing inflammation, e.g. in celiac disease.

An essential mineral. It is necessary for the transport of oxygen in the blood.

A common gastrointestinal disorder involving an abnormal condition of gut contractions (motility) and increased gut sensations (visceral hypersensitivity) characterized by abdominal pain / discomfort , gas, bloating, mucous in stools, and irregular bowel habits with constipation or diarrhea or alternating diarrhea and constipation.

An inflammation of joints with unknown cause  It is the most common form of arthritis (i.e. inflammation of joints) in children and adolescents. It typically causes persistent joint pain, swelling and stiffness. The disease may only last few months, but it can also become chronic.

Enzyme that breaks down the milk sugar lactose into its components glucose and galactose.

Also known as colon, is the last part of the gastrointestinal tract. Its function is to absorbed water and to store remaining waste material as feces.

Is defined by the World Health Organization as a birth weight of a infant of 2,499 g or less, regardless of gestational age.

A lymphoma is a type of cancer of the immune system and white blood cells. If it develops in the small intestine, it is called intestinal lymphoma. It is a rare complication of celiac disease. The prognosis depends on many factors, such as the stage, the progression, response to treatment and overall health status of the patient.

Macronutrients are the largest class of nutrients the body requires and include protein, carbohydrates, and fats.

A type of sugar that is used as a food additive. Maltodextrin is easily digestible, absorbed as rapidly as glucose and it might be either moderately sweet or almost flavorless. It is commonly used for the production of soft drinks and candy. It can also be found as an ingredient in a variety of other processed foods.

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions — increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels — that occur together, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Nutrients that are only needed in small amounts (less than 100 mg per day). They don't provide energy, but are important for various body functions. The group of micronutrients includes vitamins, some minerals and trace elements. In contrast, macronutrients are required in larger quantities. They include fat, protein and carbohydrates and can be used for energy production.

Periodic attacks of moderate to severe headache, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, dizzyness and sensitivity to light and sound.

A mineral, from a dietary sense, is an inorganic compound that is needed in small amounts for the regulation of your body's processes and health. There are two general classes of them. There are macrominerals, minerals the body needs in relatively large amounts, larger than trace minerals, wich the body needs in relatively small amounts. The different types of macrominerals include calcium, sodium, and potassium. Examples of trace minerals are iron, fluoride, and iodine.

Twins that develop from one egg cell. Another term is "identical twins".

Is a protective layer covering the inside of the intestine and of other organs such as nose, mouth and eyes. Besides protecting these organs, the mucus it produces helps move food along the intestine and helps absorb nutrients in the small intestine as it contains specialized absorptive cells.

Inflammation of the heart muscle.

Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency means that the pancreas fails to make enough of the enzymes that are needed to break down food during digestion. The result is that nutrients cannot be absorbed properly. Endocrine pancreatic insufficiency means that the pancreas doesn't produce enough of the hormone insulin, which helps cells to use sugar as energy source.

An infectious agent that can produce disease, e.g. a virus or a bacterium.

Are protein fragments.

Parts per million. It equals the unit mg/kg.

Is the birth of a baby at fewer than 37 weeks gestational age.

Proteins are complex organic compounds, made up of chains of amino acids.

Is an autoimmune disease characterized by red, itchy and scaly patches of skin. These patches may only cover certain parts or even the whole body. It is thought to be a genetic disease triggered by envrionmental factors, e.g. medication or stress. There is no cure, but the symptoms can be controlled.

If symptoms and signs of celiac disease do not resolve or re-occur although a strict gluten-free diet has been kept, healtcare professionals call this state refractory sprue.

The period during which the symptoms/signs of a disease abate or subside.

Softening of the bones in children, usually caused by vitamin D deficiency. It can result in frequent bone fractures and deformation of bones, for example bowed legs.

Virus that causes severe diarrhea, particularly in infants.

An anesthetic drug is injected to make the patient quiet or sleep.

A primary immunodeficiency characterized by an undetectable level of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in the blood and secretions, but no other immunoglobulin deficiencies. Immunoglobulin is another word for antibody.

A method to test for allergies by puncturing the skin with a needle and introducing a drop of diluted allergen. If a skin reaction appears, this may indicate that the body reacts allergic to the tested allergen.

Part of the gastrointestinal tract between the stomach and the large intestine. In the small intestine, most of the end absorption of food takes place. The small intestine has three distinct regions – the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum.

Any solid substance (as opposite of liquid), that is used as a source of nourishment. This term is often used in the sense of weaning food or complementary food, i.e. all foods other than breastmilk or infant formula.

Antibodies against tissue-transglutaminase.

IgA class auto-antibodies against tissue transglutaminase. Antibodies (=immunoglobulins) of class IgA against tissue transglutaminase; this is a blood marker which is specific for celiac disease and easy to analyse, therefore it should be the first diagnostic measure to test for celiac disease.

This is a special enzyme and is particularly notable for being an autoantigen in celiac disease.

Type 1 diabetes is an irreversible condition in which the insulin producing cells in the pancreas are destroyed by an autoimmune process. Therefore the pancreas cannot produce sufficient amounts of insulin anymore. Without insulin, the cells of the body cannot absorb glucose (sugar) which they need for their energy metabolism. Poor insulin production therefore leads to high blood glucose levels and disturbed energy metabolism. As a consequence, daily injections of insulin are necessary.

Is a long-term metabolic disorder that is characterized by high blood sugar over a prolonged period. The cells of the body are becoming resistant to insulin, which usually is responsible for the absorption of glucose in the body cells. It can have serious short-and long-term complications if not treated, because the unusually high levels of blood sugar can affect the blood vessels in several organs, leading to several health problems. Treatment usually includes adaptation of dietary habits, reduction of overweight, physical exercise and taking medication. In severe cases daily injections of insulin may be necessary. 

Inflammation of a certain part of the small intestine (called jejunum). It is characterized by ulceration, i.e. the development of lesions in the lining of the small intestine. It is a rare complication in refractory sprue. Treatment is difficult and may even require surgery to remove the areas affected by ulcers.

A kind of fat that is liquid at room temperature and comes from a plant, such as olive, peanut, corn, cottonseed, sunflower, safflower, or soybean oil. Unsaturated fats are healthier than saturated fats.

Small, finger-like projections that extend into the lumen of the small intestine. Villi increase the internal surface area of the intestinal walls making a greater surface available.

Occurs when the intestinal villi (=fingerlike structures in the small intestine that increase the surface of the intestine) flatten, leaving a virtually flat surface with a reduced surface for absorption.

Vitamins are a group of substances that are needed for normal cell function, growth, and development.
There are 13 essential vitamins.

This vitamin is important for the normal formation of red blood cells and the function of the nerve tissues. Undetected and untreated vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia and permanent nerve and brain damage.

Is a skin disease characterized by patches of skin losing their pigment. This means that these patches have a lighter color compared to the normal skin color of that person. The cause is normally unknown, but it is assumed that an autoimmune disease can be the trigger. There is no known cure.

A part of chromosome 7 is missing. Willams-Beuren syndrome is characterized by mild to moderate intellectual disability and problems with heart and blood vessels. Outgoing personality, striking verbal abilities and certain facial features are also present.