Celiac Facts for Patients

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.