The disorder may be caused by an abnormal immune response to proteins found in grains, particularly gluten and the related protein gliadin. Celiac disease causes the villi to become flattened and lose the ability to absorb nutrients. Symptoms appear in babies within 6 months of introducing food containing gluten in the diet. The disease also affects children and adults approximately 1 out of 25,000 people.
Risk factors are a genetic or familial tendency toward the disease.
Because the exact cause is unknown, there is no way known to prevent the development of celiac disease. However, some will have bone disease , anemia , or other conditions without diarrhea . Dental examination may show changes in the teeth. A CBC often indicates anemia. Serial biopsies may be performed before and after a gluten-free diet .