Keliakia
Keliakia, known in English as celiac disease, is a chronic autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten intake in genetically predisposed individuals. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. The immune reaction damages the lining of the small intestine, particularly the villi, which can lead to malabsorption of nutrients and a wide range of symptoms.
Clinical features vary widely. In children, symptoms include chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, vomiting, and
Diagnosis relies on serology and intestinal biopsies. Blood tests detect antibodies such as tissue transglutaminase (tTG)
Treatment is lifelong and requires strict adherence to a gluten‑free diet, avoiding all foods containing wheat,
Epidemiology: keliakia affects about 1% of many populations and can onset at any age, often in childhood