Collagenous celiac disease is a disease of the gastrointestinal tract, possibly caused by a dysfunctional immune system, although the mechanism of its development is poorly understood. Symptoms are primarily gastrointestinal. In collagenous celiac disease, also known as collagenous sprue, a gluten-free diet, used to treat celiac sprue, is typically ineffective, and the intestinal tract becomes lined with scar tissue called collagen. Symptoms are similar to celiac sprue, but grow more severe over time.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
According to "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine," common gastrointestinal symptoms of celiac disease include gas, bloating, indigestion, intermittent diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. These symptoms, plus the decreased absorption of nutrients, can lead to weight loss as well. Collagenous celiac disease causes the same symptoms, but to a greater extent. A 2009 study in "Modern Pathology" of 19 patients with collagenous celiac disease found that 67 percent of the patients went to the physician for ongoing diarrhea. Several patients were found to have anemia, or low levels of red blood cells, the cells responsible for carrying oxygen, presumably from poor absorption of nutrients. Fatigue and intolerance of activity is a common symptom of anemia.
Muscular, Skeletal and Skin Symptoms
Collagenous celiac disease can also cause joint inflammation or arthritis as well as muscle cramps. Bone loss or osteoporosis can also occur, says "Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease," which can make the bones brittle and more likely to break. The skin can develop a rash and become itchy, and ulcers may develop in the mouth. Hair loss is also a possible symptom. The study in "Modern Pathology" on 19 patients with collagenous celiac disease found one patient who presented to the physician with osteoporosis. Further diagnostics revealed collagenous celiac disease.
Psychological, Nerve and Reproductive Symptoms
In some people, collagenous celiac disease can lead to irritability, depression, anxiety and fatigue. Effects on the nervous system can lead to numbness and tingling in the arms and legs called peripheral neuropathy. It may also be more likely for an affected person to have a seizure. In women, the disorder can cause missed menstruation. It can also lead to infertility or miscarriages.
References
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine"; Anthony S Fauci et al; 2008
- "Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease"; Vinay Kumar et al; 2009
- "Modern Pathology"; Collagenous sprue is not always associated with dismal outcomes: a clinicopathological study of 19 patients; Efsevia Vakiani et al; October 2009
