Increased risk of hospital admission for influenza in patients with celiac disease: a nationwide cohort study in Sweden

Increased Risk of Herpes Zoster Infection in Patients with Celiac Disease 50 Years Old and Older

BACKGROUND

Celiac Disease (CD) is associated with increased susceptibility to certain bacterial and viral infections. Herpes zoster (HZ) is a viral infection that can be prevented by immunization. In the US, the vaccine is recommended for adults ≥ 50 or ≥ 19 with certain at-risk conditions, not including CD.

AIMS

We aimed to determine if adult patients aged < 50 or ≥ 50 years with CD had a higher risk of developing HZ.

METHODS

We designed a retrospective cohort study. CD was defined as patients with the ICD-10 code for CD and positive Celiac serology. Patients with negative serology and lacking CD ICD-10 codes served as controls. Patients who had HZ before CD diagnosis were excluded. We formed two sub-cohorts, those aged < 50 (cohort 1) and aged ≥ 50 years (cohort 2), and evaluated HZ infection at 10-year follow-up. To account for confounding variables, we performed 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM).

RESULTS

Following PSM, cohort 1 had 6,826 CD patients, and cohort 2 had 5,337 CD patients and respective matched controls. After ten years of follow-up, in cohort 1, 62 CD patients developed HZ versus 57 controls, RR: 1.09 (CI: 0.76-1.56, p-value = 0.64). In cohort 2, 200 CD patients developed HZ versus 159 controls, RR: 1.2 (CI: 1.02-1.54, p-value = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

There was no significant difference in the likelihood of getting HZ in CD patients < 50, although CD patients ≥ 50 had a modestly increased risk. Our findings do not support routine early vaccination for HZ in CD, and the vaccine should be offered at age 50.

Celiac Disease Affects 1% of Global Population: Who Will Manage All These Patients?

Celiac disease is a common gastrointestinal condition with an estimated global prevalence of up to 1%. Adequate long-term surveillance of patients is imperative to ensure strict adherence to treatment with a gluten-free diet and the ensuing clinical and histologic recovery. Traditionally, this has been accomplished by means of regular on-site attendance at specialist health care facilities, accompanied for most patients by follow-up endoscopic and laboratory tests. However, the rapidly increasing prevalence of celiac disease and the limited health care resources challenge the current centralized and nonindividualized follow-up strategies. The improved noninvasive surveillance tools and online health care services are further changing the landscape of celiac disease management. There is a clear need for more personalized and on-demand follow-up based on early treatment response and patient-related factors associated with long-term prognosis. Additional scientific evidence on the optimal implementation of follow-up for pediatric and adulthood celiac disease is nevertheless called for.

Utilizing Telemedicine Applications in Celiac Disease and Other Gluten-Free-Diet-Dependent Conditions: Insights from the COVID-19 Pandemic

BACKGROUND

Globally, approximately 1.4% of people have celiac disease (CD), induced by gluten sensitivity. If left untreated, it causes small intestinal inflammation and villous atrophy, which can result in failure to thrive, anemia, osteoporosis, malabsorption, and even malignancy. The only treatment option available is a gluten-free diet (GFD). Few studies have looked at the role and perception of telehealth in relation to CD and selective nutrition both before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

AIM

Our goal was to screen and investigate the research conducted both before and after the COVID-19 pandemic concerning the utilization of telehealth applications and solutions in CD and other GFD-dependent circumstances.

METHODS

We employed a narrative review approach to explore articles that were published in scholarly journals or organizations between the years 2000 and 2024. Only English-language publications were included. PubMed and Google Scholar searches were mainly conducted using the following keywords: telemedicine, telehealth, telecare, eHealth, m-health, COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, celiac disease, and gluten-free diet (GFD). Manual searches of the references in the acquired literature were also carried out, along with the authors' own personal contributions of their knowledge and proficiency in this field.

RESULTS

Only a few studies conducted prior to the COVID-19 outbreak examined the viewpoints and experiences of adult patients with CD with relation to in-person clinic visits, as well as other options such as telehealth. The majority of patients believed that phone consultations were appropriate and beneficial. Video conferencing and telemedicine became more popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the effectiveness of using these technologies for CD on a global basis. In recent years, urine assays for gluten identification have become accessible for use at home. These tests could be helpful for CD monitoring with telemedicine assistance.

CONCLUSIONS

The extended knowledge gathered from the COVID-19 pandemic is expected to complement pre-COVID-19 data supporting the usefulness of telemedicine even after the emergent pandemic, encouraging its wider adoption in standard clinical practice. The monitoring and follow-up of CD patients and other GFD-dependent conditions can greatly benefit from telemedicine.

Viruses and celiac disease: what do we know ?

The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview about the link between viruses and celiac disease. A systematic search on PubMed, Embase, and Scopus was conducted on March 07, 2023. The reviewers independently selected the articles and chose which articles to include. The review is a textual systemic review, and all relevant articles were included based on title and abstract. If there was a disagreement between the reviewers, they came to a consensus during deliberation sessions. A total of 178 articles were selected for the review and read in full; only part of them was retained. We found studies between celiac disease and 12 different viruses. Some of the studies were done only on small groups. Most studies were on pediatric population. Evidence for an association was found with several viruses (trigger or protective). It seems that only a part of the viruses could induce the disease. Several points are important to keep in mind: firstly, simple mimicry or that the virus induces a high level of TGA is not sufficient to promote the disease. Secondly, inflammatory background is necessary to induce CD with virus. Thirdly, IFN type 1 seems to have an important role. Some of the viruses are potential or known triggers like enteroviruses, rotaviruses, reoviruses, and influenza. Further studies are needed to better understand the role of viruses in celiac disease to better treat and prevent the disease.

Coronavirus disease 2019 and gastrointestinal disorders in children

During the past 3 years, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had a great impact on people all over the world. However, it has become evident that disease manifestations and severity differ across age groups. Most children have a milder disease course than adults but possibly more pronounced gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. Given the child's developing immune system, the impact of COVID-19 on disease development may differ compared to adults. This study reviews the potential bi-directional relationship between COVID-19 and GI diseases in children, focusing on common pediatric conditions such as functional GI disorders (FGID), celiac disease (CeD), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Children with GI diseases, in general, and CeD and IBD, in particular, do not seem to have an increased risk of severe COVID-19, including risks of hospitalization, critical care need, and death. While infections are considered candidate environmental factors in both CeD and IBD pathogenesis, and specific infectious agents are known triggers for FGID, there is still not sufficient evidence to implicate COVID-19 in the development of either of these diseases. However, given the scarcity of data and the possible latency period between environmental triggers and disease development, future investigations in this field are warranted.

COVID-19 and celiac disease: a review

The aim of this review is to broadly cover how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected individuals with celiac disease, including perceived risk, risk of contraction or severe infection, considerations regarding vaccination, access to gluten-free food during the pandemic, and possible long-term changes to the practice of celiac disease management spurred by the pandemic. While initially there was increased perceived risk about COVID-19 in the celiac disease population, studies have found that individuals with celiac disease are not at an increased risk of contracting or having a severe course compared to the general population. There is not yet evidence that COVID-19 infection will lead to an increase in celiac disease incidence, though more research on this topic with longer-term follow-up is necessary to make this determination. Limited access to in-person visits led to an increase in telemedicine, which was adopted swiftly by this patient population and may offer improved access in the long term. In summary, individuals with celiac disease do not appear to be at an increased risk of contracting COVID-19 or having a more severe disease course.

Prevalence and clinical outcomes of COVID-19 in patients with pre-existing celiac disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

There is a scarcity of scientific evidence addressing the outcomes of COVID-19 in celiac disease (CD) patients. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the correlation between pre-existing CD and COVID-19. A rigorous literature search was conducted using multiple databases. All eligible observational studies were included from around the globe. The random effect model calculated the pooled prevalence and associated 95% confidence intervals (CI). Mantel-Haenszel odds ratios were produced to report the overall effect size using random effect models for severity and mortality outcomes. Funnel plots, Egger regression tests, and Begg-Mazumdar's rank correlation test were used to appraise publication bias. Data from 11 articles consisting of 44,378 CD patients were obtained. Overall pooled random-effects estimate of SARS-CoV-2 infection in CD patients was 4.25% (95% CI, I²  = 98%). Our findings also indicated that pre-existing CD was not associated with an increased risk of hospitalisation with COVID-19 illness (OR = 1.04, 95% CI 0.87-1.24, I²  = 0%) and mortality due to illness (OR = 0.92, 95% CI 0.56-1.5, I²  = 45%) compared with patients without pre-existing CD. No significant publication bias was evident in the meta-analysis. The preliminary data from our analysis suggest that SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with pre-existing CD is not associated with an increased risk of hospitalisation or mortality. Additional studies are required to overcome the restrictions of the limited data available at present.

Anxiety and Associated Factors during the COVID-19 Pandemic Confinement in the Moroccan Adult Celiac Disease Population

Introduction

The widespread lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic was insured by Moroccan authorities in early 2020 to preserve the health of citizens. The lockdown and the pandemic imposed psychological effects on the population including anxiety. Celiac disease (CeD), a chronic disease among the most common inflammatory intestinal disorders, has been linked to adult emotional disturbances. Hence, CeD patients may suffer from anxiety or increase this condition due to the concomitant situation. The objective of this study was to assess COVID-19-related anxiety in a sample of adults with CeD in comparison with a matched healthy group.

Method

CeD patients (103) and matched healthy group (101) were investigated using a web-based COVID-19 and related lockdown anxiety survey. Anxiety was assessed with the State and Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI test: Y1 for state anxiety and Y2 for trait anxiety).

Results

State anxiety was present among 65.3% of CeD and 41.6% of the comparison group, and the difference was statistically significant. CeD women suffered more from state anxiety than their compeers in the comparison group (t = 3.23; p = 0.002), and a significant correlation between good compliance to GFD and less state anxiety was found among CeD patients (r = 0.31; p = 0.002). 61.8% of CeD participants thought they were at higher risk of contamination by COVID-19, and they were mostly women (χ2 = 7.66, p < 0.006) and had significantly higher state anxiety mean scores than their compatriots who did not express these thoughts (t = 2.93; p = 0.004). Additionally, 41.5% of CeD participants had anxiety as a trait against 26.7% in the comparison group and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant.

Conclusion

Results of this survey allow a better understanding of the health-related pandemic effects on Moroccan CeD patients. It demonstrates that COVID-19 and related lockdowns had a serious impact on the psychological balance of these patients by increasing their anxiety. The survey results underlined the need to improve the psychological care of CeD patients notably by considering remote medical visits during this ongoing pandemic to provide mental health support.

Comorbidities increase COVID-19 hospitalization in young people with type 1 diabetes

OBJECTIVES

We evaluated COVID-19 outcomes in children and young adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) to determine if those with comorbidities are more likely to experience severe COVID-19 compared to those without.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study included questionnaire data on patients <25 years of age with established T1D and laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 from 52 sites across the US between April 2020 and October 2021. We examined patient factors and COVID-19 outcomes between those with and without comorbidities. Multivariate logistic regression analysis examined the odds of hospitalization among groups, adjusting for age, HbA1c, race and ethnicity, insurance type and duration of diabetes.

RESULTS

Six hundred fifty-one individuals with T1D and COVID-19 were analyzed with mean age 15.8 (SD 4.1) years. At least one comorbidity was present in 31%, and more than one in 10%. Obesity and asthma were the most frequently reported comorbidities, present in 19% and 17%, respectively. Hospitalization occurred in 17% of patients and 52% of hospitalized patients required ICU level care. Patients with at least one comorbidity were almost twice as likely to be hospitalized with COVID-19 than patients with no comorbidities (Odds ratio 2.0, 95% CI: 1.3-3.1). This relationship persisted after adjusting for age, HbA1c, race and ethnicity (minority vs nonminority), insurance type (public vs. private), and duration of diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings show that comorbidities increase the risk for hospitalization with COVID-19 in children and young adults highlighting the need for tailored COVID-19 prevention and treatment strategies in T1D.

Celiac Disease and Serious Infections: A Nationwide Cohort Study From 2002 to 2017

INTRODUCTION

Patients with celiac disease (CD) have an increased risk of encapsulated bacterial infections. Less is known about other serious infections in CD, especially in patients diagnosed in the 21st century.

METHODS

We contacted all 28 pathology departments in Sweden through the Epidemiology Strengthened by histoPathology Reports in Sweden (ESPRESSO) cohort study and identified 20,088 individuals with CD (defined as villous atrophy) diagnosed in 2002-2017. Patients were matched for sex, age, and calendar year to 80,152 general population comparators and followed up until December 31, 2019. Serious infections were defined as having a hospital-based (inpatient and outpatient) diagnosis in the National Patient Register. Cox regression yielded adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) controlling for education, country of birth, and comorbidities.

RESULTS

During 173,695 person-years of follow-up, 6,167 individuals with CD (35.5/1,000 person-years) had a serious infection. This was compared with 19,131 infections during 743,260 person-years (25.7/1,000 person-years) in matched comparators, corresponding to an aHR of 1.29 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.25-1.33). aHR were similar when restricted to infection requiring hospital admission (1.23; 95% CI = 1.17-1.29). The excess risk of serious infections also persisted beyond the first year after CD diagnosis (aHR = 1.24; 95% CI = 1.20-1.29). Patients with CD were at risk of sepsis (aHR = 1.26; 95% CI = 1.09-1.45) and gastrointestinal infections (1.60; 95% CI = 1.47-1.74). Mucosal healing during CD follow-up did not influence the risk of subsequent serious infections.

DISCUSSION

This nationwide study of patients with celiac disease diagnosed in the 21st century revealed a significantly increased risk of serious infections. While absolute risks were modest, vaccinations should be considered during CD follow-up care.

Guidelines of the Italian societies of gastroenterology on the diagnosis and management of coeliac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis

INTRODUCTION

Coeliac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis are immune-mediated diseases triggered by the consumption of gluten in genetically predisposed individuals. These guidelines were developed to provide general practitioners, paediatricians, gastroenterologists, and other clinicians with an overview on the diagnosis, management and follow-up of coeliac patients and those with dermatitis herpetiformis.

METHODS

Guidelines were developed by the Italian Societies of Gastroenterology. Following a systematic literature review, the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation methodology was used to assess the certainty of the evidence. Statements and recommendations were developed by working groups consisting of gastroenterologists and a paediatrician with expertise in this field.

RESULTS

These guidelines provide a practical guidance for the diagnosis, management and follow-up of coeliac patients and dermatitis herpetiformis in children and adults, both in primary care and in specialist settings. We developed four sections on diagnosis, gluten-free diet, follow-up and risk of complications in adults, one section focused on diagnosis and follow-up in children and one on the diagnosis and management of dermatitis herpetiformis.

CONCLUSIONS

These guidelines may support clinicians to improve the diagnosis and management of patients with coeliac disease.

Vaccination Status and Attitudes towards Vaccines in a Cohort of Patients with Celiac Disease

(1) Background: The identification of vaccination status and attitudes towards vaccines among celiac disease (CD) patients is of great importance, but it has not yet been investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate coverage against vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs), attitudes towards vaccinations, and its determinants among CD patients. (2) Methods: An anonymous web-based validated questionnaire was sent to a mailing list of CD adult patients. Patients were asked to self-report their previous vaccinations and attitudes towards vaccinations, which were defined as positive, negative, and partially positive/negative. The influencing factors towards vaccinations were investigated, and crude and adjusted odds ratios (AdjORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. (3) Results: The questionnaire was sent to 412 patients, with a response rate of 31.6% (130 patients, 105 women, median age 40 years, interquartile range 36–51). Patients self-reported vaccination against the following diseases: 73.8% tetanus, 42.3% flu, 20% measles, mumps and rubella, 19.2% meningitis, and 16.2% pneumococcus. Thirty-two people (24.6%) did not remember all of their previous vaccinations. In total, 104 (80%) respondents had a positive attitude towards vaccines, 25 (19.2%) a partially positive/negative one, and 1 a negative one. The determinants significantly influencing the positive attitude were being a graduate (AdjORs 7.49) and a belief in the possible return of VPDs with declining vaccination coverage rates (AdjORs 7.42), while the use of complementary and alternative medicines (AdjORs 0.11) and past negative experience (AdjORs 0.16) were associated with a negative attitude. (4) Conclusions: Despite four out of five CD patients showing a strong positive attitude towards vaccinations, one out of five had a partially negative one. Only a minority (16–20%) reported being vaccinated against some VPDs potentially harmful to their CD because of hyposplenism, such as meningitis and pneumococcus. The low vaccination rate against some VPDs, in spite of the 80% of CD patients stating a positive attitude towards vaccination, may be explained in part by patients’ vaccine hesitancy and in part by a possible role of physicians in under-prescribing vaccinations to these patients. These results may be a starting point for developing specific vaccination campaigns to increase vaccination rates against VPDs in CD patients.

Celiac Disease and Targeting the Molecular Mechanisms of Autoimmunity in COVID Pandemic

Celiac disease (CD) comprises over 1% of the world’s population and is a chronic multisystem immune-mediated condition manifested by digestive and/or extradigestive symptoms caused by food intake of gluten. This review looked at the risk of children diagnosed with CD developing SARS-CoV-2 infection and possible severe forms of COVID-19. A better understanding of the interaction and effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection in CD is very important, as is the role of environmental and genetic factors, but especially the molecular mechanisms involved in modulating intestinal permeability with impact on autoimmunity. CD inspired the testing of a zonulin antagonist for the fulminant form of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) and paved the way for the discovery of new molecules to regulate the small intestine barrier function and immune responses. Original published works on COVID-19 and CD, new data and points of view have been analyzed because this dangerous virus SARS-CoV-2 is still here and yet influencing our lives. Medical science continues to focus on all uncertainties triggered by SARS-CoV-2 infection and its consequences, including in CD. Although the COVID-19 pandemic seems to be gradually extinguishing, there is a wealth of information and knowledge gained over the last two years and important life lessons to analyze, as well as relevant conclusions to be drawn to deal with future pandemics. Zonulin is being studied extensively in immunoengineering as an adjuvant to improving the absorption of new drugs and oral vaccines.

Celiac Disease and Targeting the Molecular Mechanisms of Autoimmunity in COVID Pandemic

Celiac disease (CD) comprises over 1% of the world's population and is a chronic multisystem immune-mediated condition manifested by digestive and/or extradigestive symptoms caused by food intake of gluten. This review looked at the risk of children diagnosed with CD developing SARS-CoV-2 infection and possible severe forms of COVID-19. A better understanding of the interaction and effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection in CD is very important, as is the role of environmental and genetic factors, but especially the molecular mechanisms involved in modulating intestinal permeability with impact on autoimmunity. CD inspired the testing of a zonulin antagonist for the fulminant form of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) and paved the way for the discovery of new molecules to regulate the small intestine barrier function and immune responses. Original published works on COVID-19 and CD, new data and points of view have been analyzed because this dangerous virus SARS-CoV-2 is still here and yet influencing our lives. Medical science continues to focus on all uncertainties triggered by SARS-CoV-2 infection and its consequences, including in CD. Although the COVID-19 pandemic seems to be gradually extinguishing, there is a wealth of information and knowledge gained over the last two years and important life lessons to analyze, as well as relevant conclusions to be drawn to deal with future pandemics. Zonulin is being studied extensively in immunoengineering as an adjuvant to improving the absorption of new drugs and oral vaccines.

Twelve Months with COVID-19: What Gastroenterologists Need to Know

Corona virus disease-19 (COVID-19) is the latest global pandemic. COVID-19 is mainly transmitted through respiratory droplets and, apart from respiratory symptoms, patients often present with gastrointestinal symptoms and liver involvement. Given the high percentage of COVID-19 patients that present with gastrointestinal symptoms (GIS), in this review, we report a practical up-to-date reference for the physician in their clinical practice with patients affected by chronic gastrointestinal (GI) diseases (inflammatory bowel disease, coeliac disease, chronic liver disease) at the time of COVID-19. First, we summarised data on the origin and pathogenetic mechanism of SARS-CoV-2. Then, we performed a literature search up to December 2020 examining clinical manifestations of GI involvement. Next, we illustrated and summarised the most recent guidelines on how to adhere to GI procedures (endoscopy, liver biopsy, faecal transplantation), maintaining social distance and how to deal with immunosuppressive treatment. Finally, we focussed on some special conditions such as faecal-oral transmission and gut microbiota. The rapid accumulation of information relating to this condition makes it particularly essential to revise the literature to take account of the most recent publications for medical consultation and patient care.

Gene Expression Signatures Reveal Common Virus Infection Pathways in Target Tissues of Type 1 Diabetes, Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, and Celiac Disease

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) patients are at heightened risk for other autoimmune disorders, particularly Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) and celiac disease (CD). Recent evidence suggests that target tissues of autoimmune diseases engage in a harmful dialogue with the immune system. However, it is unclear whether shared mechanisms drive similar molecular signatures at the target tissues among T1D, HT, and CD. In our current study, microarray datasets were obtained and mined to identify gene signatures from disease-specific targeted tissues including the pancreas, thyroid, and intestine from individuals with T1D, HT, and CD, as well as their matched controls. Further, the threshold-free algorithm rank-rank hypergeometric overlap analysis (RRHO) was used to compare the genomic signatures of the target tissues of the three autoimmune diseases. Next, promising drugs that could potentially reverse the observed signatures in patients with two or more autoimmune disorders were identified using the cloud-based CLUE software platform. Finally, microarray data of auto-antibody positive individuals but not diagnosed with T1D and single cell sequencing data of patients with T1D and HT were used to validate the shared transcriptomic fingerprint. Our findings revealed significant common gene expression changes in target tissues of the three autoimmune diseases studied, many of which are associated with virus infections, including influenza A, human T-lymphotropic virus type 1, and herpes simplex infection. These findings support the importance of common environmental factors in the pathogenesis of T1D, HT, and CD.

Host Response to SARS-CoV2 and Emerging Variants in Pre-Existing Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases

Background

Novel coronavirus SARS-CoV2 is evolving continuously with emergence of several variants of increasing transmission capabilities and pandemic potential. Generation of variants occurs through accumulation of mutations due to the RNA nature of viral genome, which is further enhanced by variable selection pressures of this ongoing pandemic. COVID-19 presentations of SARS-CoV2 are mainly pulmonary manifestations with or without mild gastrointestinal (GI) and hepatic symptoms. However, the virus has evolved beyond pulmonary manifestations to multisystem disorder due to systemic inflammation and cytokine storm. Definitive cause of acute or late onset of inflammation, infection in various organs, and host response to emerging variants lacks clarity and needs elucidation. Several studies have reported underlying diseases including diabetes, hypertension, obesity, cardio- and cerebrovascular disorders, and immunocompromised conditions as significant risk factors for severe form of COVID-19. Pre-existing liver and GI diseases are also highly predominant in the population, which can alter COVID-19 outcome due to altered immune status and host response. We aim to review the emerging variants of SARS-CoV2 and host response in patients with pre-existing liver and GI diseases.

Methods

In this review, we have elucidated the emergence and characteristic features of new SARS-CoV2 variants, mechanisms of infection and host immune response, GI and hepatic manifestation with radiologic features of COVID-19, and outcomes in pre-existing liver and GI diseases.

Key Findings

Emerging variants of concern (VOC) have shown increased transmissibility and virulence with severe COVID-19 presentation and mortality. There is a drastic swift of variants from the first wave to the next wave of infections with predominated major VOC including alpha (B.1.1.7, UK), beta (B.1.351, South Africa), gamma (B.1.1.28.1, Brazil), and delta (B1.1.617, India) variants. The mutations in the spike protein of VOC are implicated for increased receptor binding (N501Y, P681R) and immune escape (L452R, E484K/Q, T478K/R) to host response. Pre-existing liver and GI diseases not only have altered tissue expression and distribution of viral entry ACE2 receptor but also host protease TMPRSS2, which is required for both spike protein binding and cleavage to initiate infection. Altered immune status due to pre-existing conditions results in delayed virus clearance or prolonged viremia. Even though GI and hepatic manifestations of SARS-CoV2 are less severe, the detection of virus in patient’s stool indicates GI tropism, replication, and shedding from the GI tract. COVID-19-induced liver injury, acute hepatic decompensation, and incidences of acute-on-chronic liver failure may change the disease outcomes.

Conclusions

The changes in the spike protein of emerging variants, immunomodulation by viral proteins, and altered expression of host viral entry receptor in pre-existing diseases are the key determinants of host response to SARS-CoV2 and its disease outcome.

Prevalence, incidence and clinical features of SARS-CoV-2 infection in adult coeliac patients

OBJECTIVES

Data on SARS-CoV-2 disease (COVID-19) in adult coeliac disease (CD) are lacking. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the epidemiology and clinical features of COVID-19 in adult coeliac patients regularly followed-up at our centre since January 2015.

METHODS

Data about general health status and clinical features of laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 were prospectively collected over the phone. Data about CD were retrospectively collected from clinical notes. Prevalence and incidence of COVID-19 were compared between the coeliac cohort and the figures in the general population of Lombardy, Northern Italy between 20 February to 5 June 2020 provided by the Italian National Institute of Health (Istituto Superiore di Sanità) and the Lombardy regional government.

RESULTS

Nine out of 324 patients contracted COVID-19, thus resulting in a prevalence of 2.78% [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.98-4.58] and an incidence rate of 8.15/1000 person-month (95% CI 4.24-15.66). Prevalence of COVID-19 ascertained by means of nasal swab was 1.79% (95% CI 0.22-3.35) and the incidence rate 5.26/1000 person-month (95% CI 2.19-12.63), without difference from the general population. Clinical type of CD, age, sex, duration and adherence to a gluten-free diet, and mucosal healing did not differ between coeliac patients with and without COVID-19. None of the 9 patients with COVID-19 required hospitalization.

CONCLUSION

Patients with CD do not seem to carry an increased risk of COVID-19 compared to the general population and their disease course is mild.

Celiac disease: clinical update

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review highlights literature from the past year and explores the impact on current understanding of celiac disease pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management.

RECENT FINDINGS

In contrast to earlier clinical trials, recent data suggests that early gluten introduction may protect against the development of celiac disease. Celiac disease is underdiagnosed, associated with high burden of disease and linked to excess mortality risk, yet, there remains considerable uncertainty regarding the utility of mass screening in asymptomatic individuals. The gut microbiome is increasingly implicated in celiac disease pathogenesis, although the exact mechanism is undefined. Probiotics have been proposed as a disease-modifying option for celiac disease but most studies assessing efficacy are of low-quality. Patients with celiac disease do not appear to be at increased risk of contracting or developing adverse outcomes from COVID-19. Little is known about the pathogenesis of nonceliac gluten sensitivity; however, recent findings suggest an autoimmune basis for the condition.

SUMMARY

Current understanding of celiac disease continues to advance, though significant knowledge gaps remain. Large, rigorous, prospectively designed studies are needed to further characterize celiac disease pathogenesis, management and therapeutic options.

Gastrointestinal involvement in paediatric COVID-19 - from pathogenesis to clinical management: A comprehensive review

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is responsible for the first pandemic of the 21st century. As found in adults, signs and symptoms related to the disease mainly involve the respiratory tract in the paediatric population. However, a considerable number of children present with gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. The purpose of this review is an accurate description, from pathogenesis to clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment, of COVID-19 effects on the gastrointestinal system at a paediatric age. SARS-CoV-2 can be identified in stool specimens of affected children by real-time polymerase chain reaction techniques. Positivity can last for several weeks after the end of the symptomatic phase. Gastrointestinal signs and symptoms are generally self-limited, can correlate with blood tests and imaging alterations, and may require supportive treatment such as hydration. However, they can precede severe disease manifestations such as the COVID-19-related multisystem inflammatory syndrome. Children belonging to risk categories such as those affected by celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and hepatic disease seem to not have a more severe course than the others, even if they are undergoing immunosuppressant treatment. Medical follow-ups of patients with chronic diseases need to be revised during the pandemic period in order to postpone unnecessary tests, mainly endoscopic ones.

Management of patients with digestive diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic. Clinical Practice Guidelines by the Russian scientific medical society of internal medicine (RSMSIM) and the Gastroenterological Scientific Society of Russia (2nd edition)

The presented clinical practice guidelines of the Gastroenterological Scientific Society of Russia (GSSR), diagnostic, and therapeutic approaches for patients with digestive diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic. The guidelines were approved by the XXIII Congress of the GSSR and the 22nd International Slavonic-Baltic Scientifi c Forum “St. Petersburg - Gastro-2020 ON-LINE” (St. Petersburg, June 11, 2020). The presented clinical practice guidelines of the Russian Scientific Medical Society of Internal Medicine (RSMSIM) and the Gastroenterological Scientific Society of Russia (GSSR), diagnostic, and therapeutic approaches for patients with digestive diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommendations were approved at the XV National Congress of Internal Medicine, XXIII Congress of NOGR on the basis of the 1st edition, adopted at the 22nd International Slavic- Baltic Scientific Forum “St. Petersburg - Gastro-2020 ON-LINE”.

Risk perception and knowledge of COVID-19 in patients with celiac disease

BACKGROUND

We recently demonstrated that the odds of contracting coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in patients with celiac disease (CeD) is similar to that of the general population. However, how patients with CeD perceive their COVID-19 risk may differ from their actual risk.

AIM

To investigate risk perceptions of contracting COVID-19 in patients with CeD and determine the factors that may influence their perception.

METHODS

We distributed a survey throughout 10 countries between March and June 2020 and collected data on demographics, diet, COVID-19 testing, and risk perceptions of COVID-19 in patients with CeD. Participants were recruited through various celiac associations, clinic visits, and social media. Risk perception was assessed by asking individuals whether they believe patients with CeD are at an increased risk of contracting COVID-19 when compared to the general population. Logistic regression was used to determine the influencing factors associated with COVID-19 risk perception, such as age, sex, adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD), and comorbidities such as cardiac conditions, respiratory conditions, and diabetes. Data was presented as adjusted odds ratios (aORs)

RESULTS

A total of 10737 participants with CeD completed the survey. From them, 6019 (56.1%) patients with CeD perceived they were at a higher risk or were unsure if they were at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19 compared to the non-CeD population. A greater proportion of patients with CeD perceived an increased risk of contracting COVID-19 when compared to infections in general due to their CeD (56.1% vs 26.7%, P < 0.0001). Consequently, 34.8% reported taking extra COVID-19 precautions as a result of their CeD. Members of celiac associations were less likely to perceive an increased risk of COVID-19 when compared to non-members (49.5% vs 57.4%, P < 0.0001). Older age (aOR: 0.99; 95%CI: 0.99 to 0.99, P < 0.001), male sex (aOR: 0.84; 95%CI: 0.76 to 0.93, P = 0.001), and strict adherence to a GFD (aOR: 0.89; 95%CI: 0.82 to 0.96, P = 0.007) were associated with a lower perception of COVID-19 risk and the presence of comorbidities was associated with a higher perception of COVID-19 risk (aOR: 1.38; 95%CI: 1.22 to 1.54, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Overall, high levels of risk perceptions, such as those found in patients with CeD, may increase an individual’s pandemic-related stress and contribute to negative mental health consequences. Therefore, it is encouraged that public health officials maintain consistent communication with the public and healthcare providers with the celiac community. Future studies specifically evaluating mental health in CeD could help determine the consequences of increased risk perceptions in this population.

Contribution of Infectious Agents to the Development of Celiac Disease

The ingestion of wheat gliadin (alcohol-soluble proteins, an integral part of wheat gluten) and related proteins induce, in genetically predisposed individuals, celiac disease (CD), which is characterized by immune-mediated impairment of the small intestinal mucosa. The lifelong omission of gluten and related grain proteins, i.e., a gluten-free diet (GFD), is at present the only therapy for CD. Although a GFD usually reduces CD symptoms, it does not entirely restore the small intestinal mucosa to a fully healthy state. Recently, the participation of microbial components in pathogenetic mechanisms of celiac disease was suggested. The present review provides information on infectious diseases associated with CD and the putative role of infections in CD development. Moreover, the involvement of the microbiota as a factor contributing to pathological changes in the intestine is discussed. Attention is paid to the mechanisms by which microbes and their components affect mucosal immunity, including tolerance to food antigens. Modulation of microbiota composition and function and the potential beneficial effects of probiotics in celiac disease are discussed.

Implications of SARS-CoV-2 infection for neurogastroenterology

BACKGROUND

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with gastrointestinal and hepatic manifestation in up to one fifth of patients. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the etiologic agent of COVID-19, infects gastrointestinal epithelial cells expressing angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors triggering a cascade of events leading to mucosal and systemic inflammation. Symptomatic patients display changes in gut microbiota composition and function which may contribute to intestinal barrier dysfunction and immune activation. Evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 infection and related mucosal inflammation impact on the function of the enteric nervous system and the activation of sensory fibers conveying information to the central nervous system, which, may at least in part, contribute symptom generation such as vomiting and diarrhea described in COVID-19. Liver and pancreas dysfunctions have also been described as non-respiratory complications of COVID-19 and add further emphasis to the common view of SARS-CoV-2 infection as a systemic disease with multiorgan involvement.

PURPOSE

The aim of this review was to highlight the current knowledge on the pathophysiology of gastrointestinal SARS-CoV-2 infection, including the crosstalk with the gut microbiota, the fecal-oral route of virus transmission, and the potential interaction of the virus with the enteric nervous system. We also review the current available data on gastrointestinal and liver manifestations, management, and outcomes of patients with COVID-19.

Risk of Severe Covid-19 in Patients with Celiac Disease: A Population-Based Cohort Study

Background

Patients with celiac disease (CeD) are at increased risk of certain viral infections and of pneumococcal pneumonia, raising concerns that they may be susceptible to severe coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19). We aimed to quantify the association between CeD and severe outcomes related to Covid-19.

Methods

We performed a population-based cohort study, identifying individuals with CeD in Sweden, as defined by small intestinal villus atrophy diagnosed at all (n=28) Swedish pathology departments during the years spanning 1969–2017, and alive on February 1, 2020. We compared these patients to controls matched by sex, age, county, and calendar period. We performed Cox proportional hazards with follow-up through July 31, 2020, assessing risk of 1) hospital admission with a primary diagnosis of laboratory-confirmed Covid-19 (co-primary outcome); and 2) severe disease as defined by admission to intensive care unit and/or death attributed to Covid-19 (co-primary outcome).

Results

Among patients with CeD (n=40,963) and controls (n=183,892), the risk of hospital admission for Covid-19 was 2.9 and 2.2 per 1000 person-years respectively. After adjusting for comorbidities, the risk of hospitalization for Covid-19 was not significantly increased in patients with CeD (HR 1.10; 95% CI 0.80–1.50), nor was the risk of severe Covid-19 increased (HR 0.97; 95% CI 0.59–1.59). Results were similarly null when we compared CeD patients to their non-CeD siblings with regard to these outcomes. Among all patients with CeD and controls hospitalized with a diagnosis of Covid-19 (n=58 and n=202, respectively), there was no significant difference in mortality (HR for CeD compared to controls 0.96; 95% CI 0.46–2.02).

Conclusion

In this population-based study, CeD was not associated with an increased risk of hospitalization for Covid-19 or intensive care unit and/or death attributed to Covid-19.

Maternal celiac disease and the risk for long-term infectious morbidity of the offspring

PROBLEM

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease, patients with celiac have increased risk for infections, and offspring of celiac mothers have increased morbidity. The aim of the study was to assess long-term infectious morbidity among offspring of pregnant women with celiac disease.

METHOD OF STUDY

A population-based cohort study was conducted, including all singleton deliveries between the years 1991-2014 at a tertiary medical center. The offsprings were subdivided into two groups: offsprings of mothers with and without celiac disease. Data on demographics, maternal, perinatal, and long-term hospitalizations for infectious morbidity were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

During the study period there were 210 (0.09%) deliveries of mothers with celiac, and they were compared to 242170 (99.91%) deliveries of non-celiac mothers. Cumulative infectious morbidity was significantly higher in offspring of mothers with celiac compared to offspring of mothers without celiac (Kaplan-Meier, log-rank p = .004). Specifically, among the offspring of mothers with celiac significantly higher rates of bacteremia was noted (1.0% vs. 0.1%; p = .001), and infections of the central nervous system (1% vs. 0.2%; p = .028). In the Cox multivariable model which accounted for confounding variables, being born to mothers with celiac disease was associated with significantly increased risk for long-term infectious morbidity of the offspring (adjusted HR = 1.6, 95% CI 1.165-2.357, p = .005).

CONCLUSIONS

Maternal celiac disease is an independent risk factor for long-term infectious morbidity for the offspring.

The Risk of Contracting COVID-19 Is Not Increased in Patients With Celiac Disease

The World Health Organization declared coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) a global pandemic in March 2020. Since then, there are more than 34 million cases of COVID-19 leading to more than 1 million deaths worldwide. Numerous studies suggest that celiac disease (CeD), a chronic immune-mediated gastrointestinal condition triggered by gluten, is associated with an increased risk of respiratory infections.^1-3 However, how it relates to the risk of COVID-19 is unknown. To address this gap, we conducted a cross-sectional study to evaluate whether patients with self-reported CeD are at an increased risk of contracting COVID-19.

Evaluation of anti-COVID-19 measures taken by the parents of children with celiac disease: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) causes negative life changes brought about through lockdowns, in addition to severe complications and death. Among these changes, asplenism or hyposplenism has been reported in patients with celiac disease. It has been reported that the risk of pneumococcal sepsis is higher in celiac patients with hyposplenism. Moreover, celiac patients present high risk of admission to hospital due to influenza.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the degree of awareness of COVID-19 among parents of children with celiac disease and examine the measures that they take.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Cross-sectional study at a university hospital in the Middle Anatolian region of Turkey.

METHODS

The diagnosis of celiac disease was confirmed through a survey conducted online among 73 parents between May and July 2020.

RESULTS

The mean age was 37.57 ± 6.56 years for the mothers, 41.15 ± 5.56 years for the fathers and 11.36 ± 4.36 years for the children. 90.4% of the parents reported that COVID-19 was transmitted through "speaking, coughing, sneezing and infection of the face after contact with virus-infected surfaces". Moreover, 78.1% indicated that they did not have any difficulty in finding gluten-free foods.

CONCLUSION

These parents of children with celiac disease believed that their children's risk of developing COVID-19 did not differ from that of healthy children. It was also observed that appetite and states of nervousness were higher among these children with celiac disease during lockdowns and that their sleep patterns were affected.

COVID-19 pandemic perception in adults with celiac disease: an impulse to implement the use of telemedicine

Background

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) causes severe complications and deaths all over the world. COVID-19 also has indirect effects from the lockdown and the possible lack of food. We aimed to evaluate the perception of this in Celiac Disease (CeD) patients who require a lifelong gluten-free diet as a therapy.

Methods

We invited by e-mail CeD adult patients from the University of Salerno (Campania, South Italy) and the University of Padua (Veneto, North Italy) to answer an ad hoc COVID-19 survey.

Results

We sent the web survey to 651 email addresses and we received 276 answers (42,4%). CeD patients did not feel more vulnerable because they had CeD (not at all 56.6%) and they did not worry much about the possible shortness of gluten-free food during the epidemic (not at all 48.5%). The most worried were the elderly patients, patients with other comorbidities and females. Finally, CeD patients were happy with remote consultations and explicitly asked to have them.

Discussion

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted a proportion of patients with CeD; in particular, women, elderly patients, patients with other comorbidities. COVID-19, although a challenging experience from the medical and the psychological point of view, has offered an opportunity to practice, on a large-scale, a remote consultation approach for CeD healthcare.

Management of patients with digestive diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic: Clinical Practice Guidelines by the Gastroenterological Scientific Society of Russia

The presented clinical practice guidelines of the Gastroenterological Scientific Society of Russia (GSSR), diagnostic, and therapeutic approaches for patients with digestive diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic. The guidelines were approved by the XXIII Congress of the GSSR and the 22nd International Slavonic-Baltic Scientific Forum “St. Petersburg — Gastro-2020 ON-LINE” (St. Petersburg, June 11, 2020).

Evaluation of nasal mucociliary clearance time in children with celiac disease

OBJECTIVES

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that develops because of sensitivity to gluten-containing grains in genetically disposed individuals. Nasal mucociliary clearance is the most important protective factor that protects the upper and lower airways from foreign particulates. This study aimed to investigate the effect of celiac disease on nasal mucociliary clearance.

METHODS

The study included patients with celiac disease and healthy children. Nasal mucociliary clearance time was measured using the saccharin test. The children's saccharin taste time was recorded in seconds.

RESULTS

Overall, 65 children were included: 43 patients with celiac disease (66.2%) and 22 healthy children (33.8%). Of all the children, 42 (64.6%) were female, and the average age was 11.8 ± 4 years. Nasal mucociliary clearance time of patients with celiac disease (531 ± 155 s) was significantly prolonged in comparison to that of healthy children (448 ± 80 s) (p = 0.006). No relationships were found between the diagnosis age, celiac type, and histopathological phase and compliance with the gluten-free diet and nasal mucociliary clearance time of patients with celiac disease.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that nasal mucociliary clearance was prolonged in patients with celiac disease. A defect in nasal mucociliary clearance increases the risk of infection and inflammation in small airways. Studies reported a high prevalence of respiratory tract infection in patients with celiac disease, which was associated with malnutrition, vitamin deficiency, and hyposplenism. The findings of the present study indicated that impairment of nasal mucociliary clearance could play a role in the development of frequent lung infections in patients with celiac disease.

Symptoms Prompting Interest in Celiac Disease and the Gluten-Free Diet: Analysis of Internet Search Term Data

BACKGROUND

Celiac disease, a common immune-based disease triggered by gluten, has diverse clinical manifestations, and the relative distribution of symptoms leading to diagnosis has not been well characterized in the population.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to use search engine data to identify a set of symptoms and conditions that would identify individuals at elevated likelihood of a subsequent celiac disease diagnosis. We also measured the relative prominence of these search terms before versus after a search related to celiac disease.

METHODS

We extracted English-language queries submitted to the Bing search engine in the United States and identified those who submitted a new celiac-related query during a 1-month period, without any celiac-related queries in the preceding 9 months. We compared the ratio between the number of times that each symptom or condition was asked in the 14 days preceding the first celiac-related query of each person and the number of searches for that same symptom or condition in the 14 days after the celiac-related query.

RESULTS

We identified 90,142 users who made a celiac-related query, of whom 6528 (7%) exhibited sustained interest, defined as making a query on more than 1 day. Though a variety of symptoms and associated conditions were also queried before a celiac-related query, the maximum area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.53. The symptom most likely to be queried more before than after a celiac-related query was diarrhea (query ratio [QR] 1.28). Extraintestinal symptoms queried before a celiac disease query included headache (QR 1.26), anxiety (QR 1.10), depression (QR 1.03), and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (QR 1.64).

CONCLUSIONS

We found an increase in antecedent searches for symptoms known to be associated with celiac disease, a rise in searches for depression and anxiety, and an increase in symptoms that are associated with celiac disease but may not be reported to health care providers. The protean clinical manifestations of celiac disease are reflected in the diffuse nature of antecedent internet queries of those interested in celiac disease, underscoring the challenge of effective case-finding strategies.

Epidemiology of Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is a common, chronic inflammatory disorder of the small intestine triggered by exposure to gluten in individuals with certain genetic types. This disorder affects people of any age or gender. Although often thought to be European in origin, it is now global in extent. Presentations are variable, from asymptomatic patients to severe malnutrition. Initial detection usually relies on celiac-specific serology, and confirmation often requires intestinal biopsy. There have been substantial increases in prevalence and incidence over the last 2 decades for reasons that are almost certainly environmental but for which there is no clarity as to cause.

Cohort profile: ESPRESSO (Epidemiology Strengthened by histoPathology Reports in Sweden)

The ESPRESSO study constitutes a novel approach to examine the etiology and prognosis of gastrointestinal disease in which histopathology plays a prominent role. Between 2015 and 2017, all pathology departments (n=28) in Sweden were contacted and asked to procure histopathology record data from the gastrointestinal tract (pharynx to anus), liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. For each individual, local histopathology IT personnel retrieved data on personal identity number, date of histopathology, topography (where the biopsy is taken), morphology (biopsy appearance), and where available free text. In total, between 1965 and 2017, histopathology record data were available in 2.1 million unique individuals, but the number of data entries was 6.1 million because more than one biopsy was performed in many of the study participants. Index individuals with histopathology data were matched with up to five controls from the general population. We also identified all first-degree relatives (parents, children, full siblings), and the index individual's first spouse. The total study population consisted of 13.0 million individuals. Data from all the study participants have been linked to Swedish National Healthcare Registers allowing research not only on such aspects as fetal and perinatal conditions and the risk of future gastrointestinal disease but also on the risk of comorbidity and complications (including cancer and death). Furthermore, the ESPRESSO database allows researchers and practitioners to identify diagnoses and disease phenotypes not currently indexed in national registers (including disease precursors). The ESPRESSO database increases the sensitivity and specificity of already-recorded diseases in the national health registers. This paper is an overview of the ESPRESSO database.

Skepticism Regarding Vaccine and Gluten-Free Food Safety Among Patients with Celiac Disease and Non-celiac Gluten Sensitivity

BACKGROUND

There has been a marked increase in the adoption of the gluten-free (GF) diet.

AIMS

To query individuals with celiac disease (CD) and non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) on their beliefs toward the health effects of gluten, and safety of vaccines and GF food products.

METHODS

We distributed a Web-based survey to individuals with CD and NCGS on a CD center e-mail list. We used univariate and multivariate analysis to compare responses of respondents with CD and NCGS.

RESULTS

The overall response rate was 27% (NCGS n = 217, CD n = 1291). Subjects with NCGS were more likely than those with CD to disagree with the statement that "vaccines are safe for people with celiac disease" (NCGS 41.3% vs. CD 26.4% (p < 0.0001), and were more likely to decline vaccination when offered (30.9 vs. 24.2%, p = 0.007). After adjusting for age and gender, NCGS subjects were more likely than CD subjects to avoid genetically modified (GMO) foods (aOR 2.30; 95% CI 1.71-3.10), eat only organic products (aOR 2.87; 95% CI 2.04-4.03), believe that the FDA is an unreliable source of information (aOR 1.82, 95% CI 1.26-2.64), and believe a GF diet improves energy and concentration (aOR 2.52; 95% CI 1.86-3.43).

CONCLUSIONS

Subjects with NCGS were more likely than those with CD to have doubts about vaccine safety and believe in the value of non-GMO and organic foods. Our findings suggest that the lack of reliable information on gluten and its content in food and medications may reinforce beliefs that result in a detriment to public health.

Stool PCR for Gastrointestinal Pathogens in Patients With and Without Immune-Mediated Intestinal Diseases

BACKGROUND

Patients with celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease, two immune-mediated luminal conditions, have higher rates of certain infections than healthy counterparts. The prevalence of many gastrointestinal infections in these patients, however, is unknown.

AIMS

Using a novel clinical stool pathogen PCR test, we investigated the hypothesis that patients with celiac disease/inflammatory bowel disease had different distributions of diarrheal pathogens than other patients.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of outpatients who underwent stool pathogen testing with the FilmArray Gastrointestinal PCR Panel (BioFire Diagnostics, Salt Lake City, UT) at our institution from January 1 to December 31, 2015. Rates of pathogens were measured in patients with or without celiac disease/inflammatory bowel disease.

RESULTS

Of 955 patients, 337 had positive test for any pathogen, with 465 bacterial, parasitic, or viral pathogens identified. One hundred and twenty-seven patients (13.3%) had celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease, of which 29/127 (22.8%) had a positive test, compared to 308/828 other patients (37.2%) (p = 0.002). Patients with celiac disease/inflammatory bowel disease had significantly fewer viruses (1.6 vs. 8.1% of patients; p = 0.008) and parasites (0 vs. 3.3%; p = 0.039), with nonsignificant trend toward fewer bacteria (21.3 vs. 29.2%; p = 0.063). Escherichia coli species were most common in both populations.

CONCLUSIONS

Stool PCR identified numerous pathogens in patients with or without celiac disease/inflammatory bowel disease. Patients with celiac disease/inflammatory bowel disease were significantly less likely to have any pathogen identified, and had significantly fewer viruses and parasites. In this population, knowledge of common pathogens can guide diagnostic evaluation and offer opportunities for treatment.

Influenza and risk of later celiac disease: a cohort study of 2.6 million people

OBJECTIVES

Influenza has been linked to autoimmune conditions, but its relationship to subsequent celiac disease (CD) is unknown. Our primary aim was to determine the risk of CD after influenza. A secondary analysis examined the risk of CD following pandemic influenza vaccination.

METHODS

This nationwide register-based cohort study included 2,637,746 Norwegians (born between 1967-2013) followed during 2006-2014 with information on influenza diagnosed in primary or non-primary care, pandemic vaccination (Pandemrix), and subsequent CD. Cox regression yielded hazard ratios adjusted (HR) for socio-demographic characteristics and earlier healthcare use.

RESULTS

During 13,011,323 person-years of follow-up 7321 individuals were diagnosed with CD (56/100,000 person-years). There were 351,666 individuals diagnosed with influenza, including 82,980 during the 2009-2010 pandemic, and 969,968 individuals were vaccinated. Compared with participants without influenza, who had a CD incidence of 55/100,000 person-years, those diagnosed with seasonal and pandemic influenza had a rate of 68 and 78, per 100,000 person-years, respectively. The HR for CD was 1.29 (95%CI, 1.21-1.38) after seasonal influenza and 1.29 (95%CI, 1.15-1.44) after pandemic influenza; HRs remained significantly increased one year after exposure, when restricted to laboratory-confirmed influenza, and after multivariate adjustments. The reverse association, i.e., risk of influenza after CD, was not significant (HR 1.05; 95%CI, 0.98-1.12). The HR for CD after pandemic vaccination was 1.08 (95%CI, 1.03-1.14).

CONCLUSION

A positive association with influenza diagnosis is consistent with the hypothesis that infections may play a role in CD development. We could neither confirm a causal association with pandemic vaccination, nor refute entirely a small excess risk.

Risk of Clostridium difficile Infection in Patients With Celiac Disease: A Population-Based Study

OBJECTIVES

Patients with celiac disease are at increased risk for infections such as tuberculosis, influenza, and pneumococcal pneumonia. However, little is known about the incidence of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) in patients with celiac disease.

METHODS

We identified patients with celiac disease based on intestinal biopsies submitted to all pathology departments in Sweden over a 39-year period (from July 1969 through February 2008). We compared risk of CDI (based on stratified Cox proportional hazards models) among patients with celiac disease vs. without celiac disease (controls) matched by age, sex, and calendar period.

RESULTS

We identified 28,339 patients with celiac disease and 141,588 controls; neither group had a history of CDI. The incidence of CDI was 56/100,000 person-years among patients with celiac disease and 26/100,000 person-years among controls, yielding an overall hazard ratio (HR) of 2.01 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.64-2.47; P<0.0001). The risk of CDI was highest in the first 12 months after diagnosis of celiac disease (HR, 5.20; 95% CI, 2.81-9.62; P<0.0001), but remained high, compared to that of controls, 1-5 years after diagnosis (HR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.22-2.81; P=0.004). Among 493 patients with CDI, antibiotic data were available for 251; there were no significant differences in prior exposures to antibiotics between patients with celiac disease and controls.

CONCLUSIONS

In a large population-based cohort study, patients with celiac disease had significantly higher incidence of CDI than controls. This finding is consistent with prior findings of higher rates of other infections in patients with celiac disease, and suggests the possibility of altered gut immunity and/or microbial composition in patients with celiac disease.

Increased risk of herpes zoster in patients with coeliac disease - nationwide cohort study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Clinical experience suggests that patients with coeliac disease (CD) are more prone to develop herpes zoster (HZ), but robust studies are lacking.

METHODS

We identified 29,064 patients with CD 1969-2008 using biopsy report data from Sweden's 28 pathology departments. CD was equalled to villous atrophy (Marsh histopathology grade III). Each patient was matched on age, sex, calendar year and county of residence to up to five reference individuals ( n=144,342) from the general population. We then used Cox regression to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for future HZ (defined as having a hospital-based inpatient or outpatient record of this diagnosis in the Swedish Patient Register).

RESULTS

During follow-up, 154 (0.53%) individuals with CD and 499 (0.35%) reference individuals developed HZ. Among individuals aged ≥60 years, 1.06% of CD individuals and 0.85% of reference individuals had a lifetime record of HZ. Overall, CD was associated with a 1.62-fold increased risk of HZ (95% CI=1.35-1.95), and was seen also when we considered comorbidity with lymphoproliferative disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, type 1 diabetes, thyroid disease, rheumatoid disease and excluded individuals with a record of dermatitis herpetiformis. The increased risk remained significant after more than five years of follow-up (1.46; 1.16-1.84) Conclusions: CD is associated with HZ, the increased relative risk persists over time from celiac diagnosis but the absolute risk is small.

Mucosal healing and the risk of serious infections in patients with celiac disease

Background

Patients with celiac disease (CD) are at increased risk of certain infections, but it is unknown if mucosal healing influences this risk.

Methods

We collected data on 29,096 individuals with CD (equal to villous atrophy) through Sweden's 28 pathology departments undergoing biopsy 1969-2008. Through the Swedish Patient Register we obtained information on any infection and specifically sepsis, streptococcal infection, influenza, Clostridium difficile, herpes zoster and pneumococcal infection up until December 2009. We used Cox regression to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) for the risk of future diagnosis of infection according to mucosal healing on follow-up biopsy (persistent villous atrophy vs mucosal healing).

Results

Of 5598 CD individuals with no record of any infections before follow-up biopsy, 45% had persistent villous atrophy, 619 (24%) of them had a later infection, compared to 579 (19%) in those with mucosal healing (p < 0.01); the yearly incidence was 2.1% in both groups. Adjusting for age, sex, calendar period, time between biopsies and education, persistent villous atrophy was however not associated with later infection overall (HR = 0.99; 95% CI = 0.88-1.11) or with any of the specific infections.

Conclusions

In CD, mucosal healing does not influence the risk of serious infection requiring hospital-based medical attention.

Coeliac disease and invasive pneumococcal disease: a population-based cohort study

Severe infections are recognized complications of coeliac disease (CD). In the present study we aimed to examine whether individuals with CD are at increased risk of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD). To do so, we performed a population-based cohort study including 29 012 individuals with biopsy-proven CD identified through biopsy reports from all pathology departments in Sweden. Each individual with CD was matched with up to five controls (n = 144 257). IPD events were identified through regional and national microbiological databases, including the National Surveillance System for Infectious Diseases. We used Cox regression analyses to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for diagnosed IPD. A total of 207 individuals had a record of IPD whereas 45/29 012 had CD (0·15%) and 162/144 257 were controls (0·11%). This corresponded to a 46% increased risk for IPD [HR 1·46, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·05–2·03]. The risk estimate was similar after adjustment for socioeconomic status, educational level and comorbidities, but then failed to attain statistical significance (adjusted HR 1·40, 95% CI 0·99–1·97). Nonetheless, our study shows a trend towards an increased risk for IPD in CD patients. The findings support results seen in earlier research and taking that into consideration individuals with CD may be considered for pneumococcal vaccination.

Exploring the risk factors for differences in the cumulative incidence of coeliac disease in two neighboring countries: the prospective DIABIMMUNE study

BACKGROUND

During the last several decades the prevalence of coeliac disease (CD) has increased worldwide.

AIM

To compare the cumulative incidence of CD between Estonian and Finnish children and to identify the risk factors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Children were recruited as part of the DIABIMMUNE Study. In the birth cohort (BC) 258 children from Estonia and 305 from Finland, and in the young children's cohort (YCC) 1363 and 1384 children were followed up, respectively. The diagnosis of CD was made in accordance with the ESPGHAN guidelines-the presence of IgA-tTG antibodies and small bowel villous atrophy.

RESULTS

During the study period 29 children developed CD. The cumulative incidence of CD was significantly higher in Finland (0.77% vs 0.27%; P=0.01). No difference was seen between the children with CD and the controls in the duration of breastfeeding or the age at cereal introduction. The BC children with CD had had significantly more episodes of infections with fever by the age of 12 months compared to the controls (3.4 vs 1.4; P=0.04).

CONCLUSION

The 5-year cumulative incidence of childhood CD is significantly higher in Finland than in Estonia. Sequential infections early in life may increase the risk for developing CD.

Retrospective review of factors associated with severe hospitalised community-acquired influenza in a tertiary paediatric hospital in South Australia

Background

Influenza infection can result in severe disease with debilitating complications. Young children have the highest rate of influenza hospitalisations with various factors influencing influenza susceptibility and severity.

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the disease burden and assess risk factors for severe hospitalised influenza in South Australian children under 5 years of age.

Methods

Influenza admissions to the tertiary paediatric hospital in South Australia from 2008 to 2012 were identified. Data from laboratory‐confirmed influenza cases were collected, including infecting influenza strain, co‐infections, prematurity, pre‐existing medical comorbidities and other potential risk factors. Predictors of high‐level care were assessed using logistic regression.

Results

A total of 267 children with laboratory‐confirmed influenza were hospitalised. Of these, 147 admissions (53%) occurred in children without underlying medical risk factors. Eighteen children (7%) required high‐level care, of which 11 (61%) had no underlying medical risk factors. No deaths were reported. The majority of children were unimmunised against influenza. Co‐infections were identified in 40% of children (n = 107). Influenza B was associated with a requirement for higher care (OR 3.7, CI 1.3–10.9, P = .02) as was a history of food allergies (OR 9.7, CI 1.5–61.4, P = .02) and iron deficiency anaemia (OR 4.8, CI 1.4–16.1, P = .01).

Conclusions

Influenza can be a severe illness, even in children without underlying medical conditions. The identification of Influenza B strain, history of food allergies and iron deficiency anaemia as predictors of severity in hospitalised cases warrants further investigation and may have important implications for preventative strategies to reduce the burden of childhood influenza.

Does Celiac Disease Influence Survival in Sepsis? A Nationwide Longitudinal Study

Background

Individuals with celiac disease (CD) are at increased risk of sepsis. The aim of this study was to examine whether CD influences survival in sepsis of bacterial origin.

Methods

Nationwide longitudinal registry-based study. Through data on small intestinal biopsies from Sweden’s 28 pathology departments, we identified 29,096 individuals with CD (villous atrophy, Marsh stage III). Each individual with CD was matched with five population-based controls. Among these, 5,470 had a record of sepsis according to the Swedish Patient Register (1,432 celiac individuals and 4,038 controls). Finally we retrieved data on mortality in sepsis patients through the Swedish Cause of Death Registry.

Results

CD was associated with a 19% increase in overall mortality after sepsis (95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.09–1.29), with the highest relative risk occurring in children (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 1.62; 95%CI = 0.67–3.91). However, aHR for death from sepsis was lower (aHR = 1.10) and failed to reach statistical significance (95%CI = 0.72–1.69). CD did not influence survival within 28 days after sepsis (aHR = 0.98; 95%CI = 0.80–1.19).

Conclusions

Although individuals with CD seem to be at an increased risk of overall death after sepsis, that excess risk does not differ from the general excess mortality previously seen in celiac patients in Sweden. CD as such does not seem to influence short-term or sepsis-specific survival in individuals with sepsis and therefore is not an independent risk factor for poor prognosis in sepsis.

Infections and risk of celiac disease in childhood: a prospective nationwide cohort study

OBJECTIVES

Studies on early life infections and risk of later celiac disease (CD) are inconsistent but have mostly been limited to retrospective designs, inpatient data, or insufficient statistical power. We aimed to test whether early life infections are associated with increased risk of later CD using prospective population-based data.

METHODS

This study, based on the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study, includes prospective, repeated assessments of parent-reported infectious disease data up to 18 months of age for 72,921 children born between 2000 and 2009. CD was identified through parental questionnaires and the Norwegian Patient Registry. Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios adjusted for child's age and sex (aOR).

RESULTS

During a median follow-up period of 8.5 years (range, 4.5-14.5), 581 children (0.8%) were diagnosed with CD. Children with ≥10 infections (≥fourth quartile) up to age 18 months had a significantly higher risk of later CD, as compared with children with ≤4 infections (≤first quartile; aOR=1.32; 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.06-1.65; per increase in infectious episodes, aOR=1.03; 95% CI=1.02-1.05). The aORs per increase in specific types of infections were as follows: upper respiratory tract infections: 1.03 (95% CI=1.02-1.05); lower respiratory tract infections: 1.12 (95% CI=1.01-1.23); and gastroenteritis: 1.05 (95% CI=0.99-1.11). Additional adjustments for maternal CD, education level, smoking, birth weight, prematurity, infant feeding practices, birth season, and antibiotic treatment yielded largely unchanged results.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first large-scale population-based cohort study of this association. Our results are in line with immunological data suggesting that early life infections may have a role in CD development. However, non-causal explanations for this association due to surveillance bias and reverse causation cannot be excluded.

Autoimmune Disease in First-Degree Relatives and Spouses of Individuals With Celiac Disease

BACKGROUND & AIMS

First-degree relatives of individuals with celiac disease are at increased risk for this disorder, but little is known about their risk for other autoimmune diseases. We assessed the risk of nonceliac autoimmune disease in first-degree relatives and spouses of people with celiac disease.

METHODS

We identified individuals with celiac disease by searching computerized duodenal and jejunal biopsies, collected from 1969 through 2008, at 28 pathology departments in Sweden. Celiac disease was identified based on biopsy reports of villous atrophy (equal to Marsh grade 3; n = 29,096). Individuals with celiac disease were matched with up to 5 controls (people without celiac disease) for sex, age, county, and calendar year (total, 144,522 controls). Through Swedish health care registries, we identified all first-degree relatives (fathers, mothers, siblings, and offspring) and spouses of individuals with celiac disease (n = 84,648) and controls (n = 430,942). We used Cox regression analysis to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) for nonceliac autoimmune disease (Crohn's disease, type 1 diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, sarcoidosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, or ulcerative colitis) in these groups.

RESULTS

During the follow-up period (median, 10.8 y), 3333 of the first-degree relatives of patients with celiac disease (3.9%) and 12,860 relatives of controls (3.0%) had an autoimmune disease other than celiac disease. First-degree relatives of people with celiac disease were at increased risk of nonceliac autoimmune disease, compared with controls (HR, 1.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.23-1.33), as were spouses (HR, 1.20; 95% confidence interval, 1.06-1.35). Risk estimates for nonceliac autoimmune disease did not differ between first-degree relatives and spouses of individuals with celiac disease (interaction test: P = .11). HRs for nonceliac autoimmune disease were highest in the first 2 years of follow-up evaluation.

CONCLUSIONS

First-degree relatives and spouses of individuals with celiac disease are at increased risk of nonceliac autoimmune disease. In addition to genetic factors, environmental factors and ascertainment bias might contribute to the increased risk of autoimmunity in first-degree relatives of individuals with celiac disease.

Diagnosis and management of adult coeliac disease: guidelines from the British Society of Gastroenterology

A multidisciplinary panel of 18 physicians and 3 non-physicians from eight countries (Sweden, UK, Argentina, Australia, Italy, Finland, Norway and the USA) reviewed the literature on diagnosis and management of adult coeliac disease (CD). This paper presents the recommendations of the British Society of Gastroenterology. Areas of controversies were explored through phone meetings and web surveys. Nine working groups examined the following areas of CD diagnosis and management: classification of CD; genetics and immunology; diagnostics; serology and endoscopy; follow-up; gluten-free diet; refractory CD and malignancies; quality of life; novel treatments; patient support; and screening for CD.