Abstract
BACKGROUND: "Gluten-related disorders" is a term that encompasses different diseases induced by the ingestion of gluten-containing food. Because of their incidence the scientific community has been intensively studying them.
AIM: To support gastroenterologists with a correct nomenclature and diagnostic approach to gluten-related disorders in adulthood.
METHODS: The Italian Association of Hospital Gastroenterologists and Endoscopists (AIGO) commissioned a panel of experts to prepare a position statement clarifying the nomenclature and diagnosis of gluten-related disorders, focusing on those of gastroenterological interest. Each member was assigned a task and levels of evidence/recommendation have been proposed.
RESULTS: The panel identified celiac disease, wheat allergy and non-celiac gluten sensitivity as the gluten-related disorders of gastroenterological interest. Celiac disease has an autoimmune nature, wheat allergy is IgE-mediated while the pathogenesis of non-celiac gluten sensitivity is still unknown as is the case of non-IgE mediated allergy. Diagnosis should start with the serological screening for celiac disease and wheat allergy. In case of normal values, the response to a gluten-free diet should be evaluated and a confirmatory blind food challenge carried out.
CONCLUSIONS: Gluten-related disorders are clinically heterogeneous. Patients should be carefully managed and specific protocols applied for a correct differential diagnosis in gastroenterological setting.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 138-146 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Digestive and Liver Disease |
Volume | 49 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Feb 2017 |
Keywords
- Celiac Disease
- Diagnosis, Differential
- Diet, Gluten-Free
- Gastroenterology
- Glutens
- Hospitals
- Humans
- Italy
- Risk Factors
- Societies, Medical
- Wheat Hypersensitivity
- Journal Article