Support for patients with celiac disease: A literature review

Expression of MicroRNAs in Adults with Celiac Disease: A Narrative Review

Celiac disease (CD) is an immune-mediated enteropathy triggered by the ingestion of proline- and glutamine-rich proteins, widely termed "gluten", in genetically susceptible individuals. CD induces an altered immune response that leads to chronic inflammation and duodenal mucosal damage. Currently, there are no specific tests for the accurate diagnosis of CD, and no drugs are available to treat this condition. The only available treatment strategy is lifelong adherence to a gluten-free diet. However, some studies have investigated the involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs) in CD pathogenesis. miRNAs are small noncoding ribonucleic acid molecules that regulate gene expression. Despite the growing number of studies on the role of miRNAs in autoimmune disorders, data on miRNAs and CD are scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to perform a literature review to summarize CD, miRNAs, and the potential interactions between miRNAs and CD in adults. This review shows that miRNA expression can suppress or stimulate pathways related to CD pathogenesis by regulating cell proliferation and differentiation, regulatory T-cell development, innate immune response, activation of the inflammatory cascade, focal adhesion, T-cell commitment, tissue transglutaminase synthesis, and cell cycle. Thus, identifying miRNAs and their related effects on CD could open new possibilities for diagnosis, prognosis, and follow-up of biomarkers.

A gluten-free diet for endometriosis patients lacks evidence to recommend it

Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent chronic disease characterized by the presence of endometriumlike tissue outside the uterus and is often associated with symptoms, such as dysmenorrhea, dysuria, dyschezia, chronic pelvic pain, and infertility. Moreover, women diagnosed with endometriosis can report gastrointestinal symptoms, including bloating, constipation or diarrhea, and abdominal cramping, which can be associated with irritable bowel syndrome and can result in the misdiagnosis of endometriosis as irritable bowel syndrome at first. Treatment usually involves hormonal therapy, pain management, surgery, and/or assisted reproductive techniques in case of infertility. Nonetheless, these treatment methods can be insufficient for alleviating symptoms or can have unacceptable side effects, leading to noncompliance. Therefore, women often apply self-management strategies, including dietary interventions. One of the diets frequently suggested as a tool to manage endometriosis-related symptoms on social media and patient forums is a gluten-free diet. Although a gluten-free diet has been proven effective in managing nonceliac wheat sensitivity or celiac disease, its effectiveness in endometriosis remains uncertain. The Nurses' Health Study II found it unlikely that gluten intake was a strong factor in endometriosis etiology and symptomatology. To the best of our knowledge, the most frequently cited and sole published intervention study on the efficacy of a gluten-free diet for endometriosis has several important limiting factors, including the absence of a control group. In addition, gluten consumption is highly susceptible to a placebo effect and a nocebo effect, where women might experience symptom relief after eliminating gluten and return of symptoms after they consume gluten again, solely because they believe that gluten is bad for them. Despite the inverse association between body mass index and endometriosis and between a gluten-free diet and increased body mass index, this is an association, and no causality was proven. In addition, other factors should be taken into consideration. Of note, a gluten-free diet is expensive, has limited availability, and has a significant effect on quality of life. Moreover, without proper dietary guidance, it may adversely affect the gastrointestinal microbiome. Therefore, scientifically substantiated advice regarding the use of a gluten-free diet for endometriosis-related symptoms is currently not available, and a gluten-free diet should be discouraged unless there is an additional diagnosis of nonceliac wheat sensitivity or celiac disease.

Anxiety and Depression Among Adults and Children With Celiac Disease: A Meta-Analysis of Different Psychiatry Scales

Background

Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disorder in which genetically susceptible individuals cannot digest gluten (wheat) and its homologs such as Scalin (rye) and Hordein (barley).

Aim

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the measures of associations between CD and psychiatric disorders, specifically anxiety and depression, and explore the relationship between adherence to a Gluten-Free Diet (GFD) and the psychiatric aspects of the disease.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science for articles investigating anxiety and depression in CD patients. The following inclusion criteria were implemented: Primary research articles (either observational or experimental) that include participants with a CD diagnosis -confirmed either serologically, with anti-endomysial antibodies, anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies, or with duodenum biopsy, whether on a GFD or not,-who have depression or anxiety symptoms identified through self-report or clinician-administered scales.

Results

CD patients are at a higher odds of developing anxiety, as the odds ratio was (OR: 2.26, 95% CI: [1.10, 4.67]) and depression symptoms (OR: 3.36, 95% CI: [1.36, 8.32]). Results of both State-Trait Anxiety Inventory Y-1 and Y-2 improved after 1 year of GFD with mean difference of 3.48, 95% CI: (0.26, 6.71), and MD: 3.45, 95% CI: (1.39, 5.52), respectively.

Conclusion

Anxiety and depression are prevalent among adults and children CD patients as they are observed to have high odds of anxiety and depression as expressed by various scales. It is reported that GFD is associated with decreased levels of anxiety and depression, however, further studies are required to confirm these findings and to investigate the main mechanism of psychiatric disorders among CD patients.

Gluten-Free Diet and Other Celiac Disease Therapies: Current Understanding and Emerging Strategies

A lifelong gluten-free diet (GFD) is the only treatment for celiac disease and other gluten-related disorders. Nevertheless, strict adherence to the GFD is often challenging due to concerns about social isolation, risk of gluten contaminations, high cost, poor quality and the taste of gluten-free products. Moreover, although the GFD is effective in achieving mucosal healing, it may lead to dietary imbalances due to nutrient deficiencies over a long period of time. To overcome these issues, several gluten-free wheat flours have been developed to create products that closely resemble their gluten-containing counterparts. Furthermore, given the critical importance of adhering to the GFD, it becomes essential to promote adherence and monitor possible voluntary or involuntary transgressions. Various methods, including clinical assessment, questionnaires, serology for celiac disease, duodenal biopsies and the detection of Gluten Immunogenic Peptides (GIPs) are employed for this purpose, but none are considered entirely satisfactory. Since adherence to the GFD poses challenges, alternative therapies should be implemented in the coming years to improve treatment efficacy and the quality of life of patients with celiac disease. The aim of this narrative review is to explore current knowledge of the GFD and investigate its future perspectives, focusing on technology advancements, follow-up strategies and insights into a rapidly changing future.

Diet associations in endometriosis: a critical narrative assessment with special reference to gluten

Endometriosis is characterized by the presence of endometrium-like tissue outside the uterus. The etiology remains largely unknown. Despite adequate treatment, patients can still experience symptoms or side effects resulting in therapy incompliance and in self-management strategies such as dietary measures is increasing. A gluten free diet is thought to be contributory in reducing endometriosis-related pain, thereby optimizing quality of life. However, data is conflicting and currently provides no evidence for causality. This narrative review aims to put the effect of dietary self-management strategies on endometriosis in a balanced perspective, especially the effect of gluten and a gluten free diet. Several studies have found a strong overlap in symptoms, metabolic and immune responses associated with endometriosis and those associated with celiac disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome and non-celiac wheat sensitivity. However, it remains unclear whether these diseases and/or disorders are causal to an increased risk of endometriosis. Some studies have found a positive effect on the risk of endometriosis, endometriosis-related symptoms and quality of life (QoL) when women either avoided certain nutrients or foods, or applied a specific nutrient supplementation. This includes the avoidance of red meat, an increasing intake of foods rich in anti-oxidants, omega-3, micronutrients and dietary fibers (e.g., fruit, vegetables) and the appliance of a gluten free diet. However, data from the available studies were generally graded of low quality and it was noted that placebo and/or nocebo effects influenced the reported positive effects. In addition, such effects were no longer seen when adjusting for confounders such as overweight, when a translation was made from in vitro to in vivo, or when the nutrients were not supplemented as isolated sources but as part of a mixed daily diet. Finally, some studies showed that long-term adherence to a gluten free diet is often associated with an impaired diet quality and nutrient intake, leading to negative health outcomes and reduced QoL. Concluding, scientific evidence on the efficacy of dietary interventions on well-defined clinical endpoints of endometriosis is lacking and recommending a gluten free diet to women solely diagnosed with endometriosis should therefore not be advised.

Gluten-free diet adherence in children with screening-detected celiac disease using a prospective birth cohort study

BACKGROUND

Celiac disease has an increasing incidence worldwide and is treated with lifelong adherence to a gluten-free diet. We aimed to describe gluten-free diet adherence rates in children with screening-identified celiac disease, determine adherence-related factors, and compare adherence to food records in a multinational prospective birth cohort study.

METHODS

Children in The Environmental Determinants of Diabetes in the Young study with celiac disease were included. Subjects had at least annual measurement of adherence (parent-report) and completed 3-day food records. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, Kruskal-Wallis tests and multivariable logistic and linear regression were employed.

RESULTS

Two hundred ninety (73%) and 199 (67%) of subjects were always adherent to a gluten-free diet at 2 and 5 years post celiac disease diagnosis respectively. The percentage of children with variable adherence increased from 1% at 2 years to 15% at 5 years. Children with a first-degree relative with celiac disease were more likely to be adherent to the gluten-free diet. Gluten intake on food records could not differentiate adherent from nonadherent subjects. Adherent children from the United States had more gluten intake based on food records than European children (P < .001 and P = .007 at 2 and 5 years respectively).

CONCLUSION

Approximately three-quarters of children with screening-identified celiac disease remain strictly adherent to a gluten-free diet over time. There are no identifiable features associated with adherence aside from having a first-degree relative with celiac disease. Despite good parent-reported adherence, children from the United States have more gluten intake when assessed by food records. Studies on markers of gluten-free diet adherence, sources of gluten exposure (particularly in the United States), and effects of adherence on mucosal healing are needed.

The gluten-free diet challenge in adults with coeliac disease: the Hellenic survey

Objective

The only available treatment for coeliac disease (CD) is a lifelong strict gluten-free diet (GFD), which can be extremely challenging. Τhe aim of the present study was to gain an insight into patients' perceptions regarding the GFD, in relation to difficulties experienced, disease-specific symptoms, adherence level, and information sources used.

Methods

Two hundred ninety CD patients (247 women and 43 men) aged 18-74 years, completed a self-administered questionnaire.

Results

Self-rated dietary adherence was high in 65.5%, moderate in 27.5% and poor in 6.9% of the patients. The main difficulties encountered were the high cost and limited availability of GF foods and meals in markets and restaurants. The main source of information concerning CD and GFD was the internet, and the most useful source was the Coeliac Society. Dietary adherence correlated positively with Coeliac Society membership and awareness of the monthly CD allowance.

Conclusion

Α substantial proportion of patients did not adhere to a strict GFD. Patients were not adequately followed-up.

Innovation

A self-administered questionnaire was used to explore the practical challenges of a GFD in an understudied population, Greek adult coeliac patients. The results highlighted the need for dietitians with expertise on CD.

Quality of Diet of Patients with Coeliac Disease in Comparison to Healthy Children

A lifelong strict gluten-free diet is the only available treatment for patients with coeliac disease (CD). As with any restrictive diet, it may potentially lead to nutritional deficits. Seventy-six patients with CD (mean age 9.0 ± 4.3 years, 57% female) and 590 healthy controls (HC) (mean age 9.9 ± 0.1 years, 54% female) were recruited and requested to keep a 3-day food record (3DFR). In HC patients, anthropometric data were determined at the time when 3DFRs were collected. In CD patients, anthropometric data were determined at two time points: at diagnosis and at the time of 3DFRs collection. Intake of energy, macronutrients, and micronutrients was determined using PRODI expert 6.9 software and expressed as a percentage of recommended daily intake. In CD patients, all measured anthropometric measures (body weight (BW), body height (BH), and body mass index (BMI) z-scores) increased significantly after the mean duration of 34.1 months of a GFD. Overall, CD patients had significantly lower BW and BH z-scores compared to healthy controls. Patients with CD were generally more compliant with the recommended dietary intakes of macronutrients and some micronutrients, as compared to HC. Three participants were not compliant with the GFD; 42.1% of participants took oral nutritional supplements at the start of their GFD. Our study showed that patients with CD have better compliance with dietary recommendations compared to healthy controls, showing that a well-balanced GFD diet can provide necessary macro- and micronutrients.

Diagnostic management of patients reporting symptoms after wheat ingestion

Many patients report symptoms after wheat ingestion experiencing a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations. Three possible diagnoses have been recognized: celiac disease (CD), wheat allergy (WA), and non-celiac (gluten) wheat sensitivity (NCGS/NCWS). CD is a chronic immune-mediated disease of the small bowel caused by exposure to dietary gluten in genetically predisposed individuals, with a prevalence of approximately 1%. It is characterized by mucosal inflammation and atrophy following exposure to gluten and improvement after gluten withdrawal. Food allergies are immunological responses to a food antigen. WA is the expression of an immunologically mediated process that can be immunoglobulin E (IgE) or non-IgE mediated; its many symptoms include urticaria/angioedema, asthma, rhinitis, and anaphylaxis. NCGS/NCWS is characterized by gastrointestinal and/or extra-intestinal symptoms after ingestion of gluten-containing food in subjects not affected by CD or WA. The aim of this review is to help physicians and nutritionists diagnose the cause of symptoms reported after wheat ingestion, thus avoiding patient frustration, inappropriate testing, and incorrect or missed diagnoses. An algorithm for the diagnostic approach in these patients is provided, to help to diagnose CD, WA, NCGS/NCWS or to identify possible functional disorders as the wheat-sensitive irritable bowel syndrome. A personalized approach, regular follow-up, and the help of a skilled healthcare professional are mandatory for patients with symptoms following wheat ingestion is provided. A gluten-free-diet is often recommended for patients with self-reported gluten/wheat-dependent symptoms; for patients with symptoms similar to those of functional diseases while there is evidence that a low-FODMAP diet could be the first option.

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.

Celiac disease poses significant risk in developing depression, anxiety, headache, epilepsy, panic disorder, dysthymia: A meta-analysis

Celiac disease (CD) primarily affects the small intestine. Previous studies have identified higher incidences of neuropsychiatric diseases among CD patients compared to non-CD controls. Genome-wide association studies have identified >60 non-human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes associated with CD, where estimated 15% genes have role in neurological health. We carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the potential risk conferred by CD in developing neuropsychiatric diseases. Literature search was performed till June 2019. Incidences of neuropsychiatric diseases were compared among CD and non-CD controls. Funnel plots and Egger's tests were used to evaluate publication bias and estimate study effects. Qualities of the included studies were estimated using Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Quality of evidence was graded using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. Odds of developing neuropsychiatric diseases among CD were evaluated by computing meta-odds ratio (Manten-Haenszel method) and Z test p-value using random and fixed effect models based on the degree of study heterogeneity. Thirteen non-randomized case-control studies were found eligible. Subjects suffering from CD were found to have significantly more risk to develop depression (p<1.00E-05; OR=1.60 [1.37-1.86]), anxiety (p=0.05; OR=1.41 [1.00-1.97]), headache (p<0.1.00E-05; OR=3.27 [2.46-4.34]), epilepsy (p<1.00E-04; OR=11.90 [3.78-37.43]), panic disorder (p<1.00E-04; OR=4.64 [2.22-9.70]), and dysthymia (p=2.00E-03; OR=5.27 [1.83-15.22]). CD is a major predisposing factor in developing array of common neuropsychiatric diseases. Shared biological processes and molecular networks could play a crucial role in disease co-occurrence. Detailed molecular evidences are needed to establish the cause-effect relationship between these diseases.

Effects of a 12-week HIIT + group mediated cognitive behavioural intervention on quality of life among inactive adults with coeliac disease: findings from the pilot MOVE-C study

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the pilot MOVE-C study was to examine the effects of a 12-week high-intensity interval training (HIIT) plus lifestyle education program on quality of life (QoL), behavioural and psychosocial outcomes among inactive adults with coeliac disease.

DESIGN

This study used a 3 (time: baseline, immediately post and three months post) × 2 (group: experimental versus waitlist control) mixed design. After completing baseline testing, 41 participants were randomised to one of two groups: HIIT + or waitlist control (WLC). The HIIT + intervention involved twice-weekly HIIT, during which participants progressed to 14 × 30 s intervals (90% heart rate max; HRmax), with 2-minute recovery (50% HRmax). The HIIT + intervention also included six bi-weekly education sessions.

RESULTS

Participants in HIIT + reported significant improvements in QoL and exercise behaviour immediately post-intervention, and this was sustained three months post-intervention, whereas no changes in QoL nor exercise behaviour were reported in WLC. Improvements were also reported among HIIT + immediately after the intervention for gastrointestinal symptoms and self-compassion. All participants reported significant improvements in adherence to a GFD immediately post-intervention.

CONCLUSION

Findings from this pilot study provide preliminary evidence that a tailored exercise and lifestyle intervention can lead to improved QoL, exercise behaviour, gastrointestinal symptoms and self-compassion among inactive adults with coeliac disease.

Dermatitis Herpetiformis: An Update on Diagnosis and Management

Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH), presenting with an intense itch and blistering symmetrical rash, typically on the elbows, knees, and buttocks, is a cutaneous manifestation of celiac disease. Though overt gastrointestinal symptoms are rare, three-fourths of patients with DH have villous atrophy in the small bowel, and the rest have celiac-type inflammatory changes. DH affects mostly adults and slightly more males than females. The mean age at onset is about 50 years. DH diagnosis is confirmed by showing granular immunoglobulin A deposits in the papillary dermis. The DH autoantigen, transglutaminase 3, is deposited at the same site in tightly bound immune complexes. At present, the DH-to-celiac disease prevalence is 1:8. The incidence of DH is decreasing, whereas that of celiac disease is increasing, probably because of improved diagnostics. In DH, the treatment of choice for all patients is a gluten-free diet (GFD) in which uncontaminated oats are allowed. At onset, most patients need additional dapsone to rapidly control the rash and itching. Dapsone can be stopped after a mean of 2 years, and a strict lifelong GFD alone is required. Dietary adherence offers an excellent long-term prognosis for patients with DH, with a normal quality of life and all-cause mortality.

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.

Evaluation of Daily Lives of Children and Adolescents with Celiac Disease and Nursing Approaches

The incidence of celiac disease has been increasing in recent years. Celiac disease is an autoimmune enteropathy that emerges mostly in the childhood period. This disorder is a chronic condition of the small intestine due to gluten intake in individuals with genetic predisposition. In the treatment of celiac disease, gluten-free diet therapy is applied. However, the adaptation process to the diet may create difficulties for patients. Compliance with diet is much more difficult among patients with celiac disease in childhood and adolescence than in adult patients. Children and adolescents face distinct difficulties in their homes, at school, and in their social lives. Besides following dietary treatment, children and adolescents living with celiac disease need peer support to manage their daily routines. In this article, we aimed to discuss the problems experienced by children and adolescents living with celiac disease and nursing approaches to these problems.

Educational Intervention Improved Parental Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) and Adherence of Patients with Celiac Disease to Gluten-Free Diet

Background

Raising the knowledge level though education for a celiac disease patient's parents could improve the parent's adherence and practice and consequently recover the patient's adherence and symptoms and increase the patient's compliance.

Aim

The present study was aimed at assessing the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of parents who have children with celiac disease aged from 2 to 15 years old and the change in self-reported patient's adherence pre-/posteducational intervention.

Method

This intervention study was designed as a quasiexperiment with evaluation pre-/post intervention analyses. Two educational sessions were carried for the parents of CD patients. A reliable and valid questionnaire was used to assess all independent variables pre-/post intervention. The parents were asked to complete the questionnaire pre and post the education sessions. The time between the sessions was two weeks.

Results

100 parents were recruited, and 40 parents participated and completed the study. Baseline parent's knowledge was significantly associated with the source of information (p value = 0.02), while the patient's adherence was associated with the onset of disease (p value = 0.04). There were significant differences in the parent's KAP and patient's adherence between pre- and posteducational intervention (p value was ≤0.001, for all variables).

Conclusion

Based on the results, this study suggested that the educational intervention increased the parent's KAP and improved the patient's adherence to the gluten-free diet significantly, which may lead to improvement in the celiac disease patients' health outcomes.

Quality-of-Life Evaluation in Coeliac Patients on a Gluten-Free Diet

The treatment for coeliac disease (CD) has a considerable psychological impact on patients, which may vary depending on subjects and clinical characteristics. The aim of this study was to describe the quality of life (QoL) in CD patients during follow-up, evaluating which factors can influence it. Patients with CD who consecutively visited the outpatient clinic of CD Unit of the University Hospital of Padua from January to September 2019 were enrolled. Demographics and clinical information were collected, and all patients were asked to answer the CD-QoL and Biagi’s validated questionnaires. Student’s t-test and chi-square test were used to compare the continuous and categorical variables, respectively. One hundred patients were enrolled (86 females, mean age at test ± SD: 39.73 ± 13.51; mean age at diagnosis ± SD: 33.09 ± 12.92), with 61% of them having been diagnosed with CD within the previous 5 years. At the time of diagnosis, 43 CD patients reported classical CD presentation, 32 non-classical features, 16 only anaemia and 9 were asymptomatic. The mean CD-QoL value was overall high (80.54 ± 11.91). We found that the “health concerns” subscale score was significantly lower in subjects aged more than 35 years compared to younger subjects (p = 0.03). We also observed that the CD-QoL score in gluten-free diet (GFD)-adherent patients tended to be higher compared to subjects who were non-compliant, with a significantly higher percentage of patients with low score for the “dysphoria” subscale (p = 0.05). This study showed an overall good QoL in subjects on a GFD. However, subjects older and non-compliant to GFD appear to experience more health concerns and suffer from dysphoria, respectively.

Rate, Risk Factors, and Outcomes of Nonadherence in Pediatric Patients With Celiac Disease: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The only treatment for celiac disease is strict adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD). We performed a systematic review to investigate the rate of adherence to a GFD in children with celiac disease, risk factors that affect adherence, and outcomes of non-adherence.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, EBSCO, and Scopus for studies through January 2019. We included observational studies of ≥50 children diagnosed with celiac disease and recommended for placement on a GFD. We collected data on adherence assessment (self-report, serology tests, structured dietary interview, biopsies, or assays for gluten immunogenic peptides), risk factors, and outcomes related to adherence. Findings were presented with medians, range, and a narrative synthesis.

RESULTS

We identified 703 studies; of these, 167 were eligible for full-text assessment and 49 were included in the final analysis, comprising 7850 children. Rates of adherence to a GFD ranged from 23% to 98%. Comparable rates (median rates of adherence, 75%-87%) were found irrespective of how assessments were performed. Adolescents were at risk of non-adherence and children whose parents had good knowledge about celiac disease adhered more strictly. Non-adherence associated with patient growth, symptoms, and quality of life.

CONCLUSION

In a systematic review of 49 studies of children with celiac disease, we found substantial variation in adherence to a GFD among patients. Rate of adherence was not associated with method of adherence measurement, so all methods appear to be useful, with lack of consensus on the ideal metric. Studies are needed to determine the best method to ensure adherence and effects on long-term health.

The WASh Trial: water-assisted sigmoidoscopy in the English Bowel Scope Screening Programme: study protocol for a randomized multicenter trial

Background and study aims  The English National Bowel Scope Screening Programme (BSSP) invites 55-year-olds for a one-off, unsedated flexible sigmoidoscopy (FSIG). Data from BSSP participant-reported experience studies shows 1 in 3 participants report moderate or severe discomfort. Water-assisted colonoscopy (WAS) may improve participants' comfort. The primary objective of this study is to ascertain if post-procedural participant-assessed pain is reduced in WAS compared with carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) insufflation, in invitees undergoing FSIG in BSSP. Patients and methods  This is a multicenter, prospective, randomized, two-arm, single-blinded trial designed to evaluate the performance of WAS versus CO 2 insufflation in BSSP. Participants will be randomized to either CO 2 or WAS and will be asked to rate pain post-procedure. Key procedure-related data will be analyzed, including adenoma detection rates (ADR) and degree of sigmoid looping. A cost-effectiveness analysis of WAS versus CO 2 and a discrete choice experiment exploring preferences of participants for attributes of sigmoidoscopy will also be performed. Discussion  This is the first trial in the United Kingdom (UK) to investigate the effects of WAS in a screening setting. If the trial shows WAS either reduces pain or increases ADR, this may result in a practice change to implement WAS in screening and non-screening endoscopic practice directly impacting on 256,000 people a year who will undergo BSSP FSIG by 2020. Trial funding came from National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Research for Patient Benefit (RfPB) supported by the NIHR Clinical Research Network. The trial is actively recruiting. ID: 35866 ISRCTN: 81466870.

Measuring Quality of Life in Parents or Caregivers of Children and Adolescents with Celiac Disease: Development and Content Validation of the Questionnaire

Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten and affects approximately 1% of the global population. Currently, the only treatment available is lifelong strict adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD). Chronic diseases such as CD affect patients and their family members’ quality of life (QoL); particularly parents and caregivers who play an essential role in the child’s care and treatment. A higher level of psychological distress has been found in the parents of children with chronic ailments due to limited control over the child’s daily activities and the child’s illness. In this context, the validation of a specific questionnaire of QoL is a valuable tool to evaluate the difficulties faced by parents or caregivers of children with this chronic illness. A specific questionnaire for this population can elucidate the reasons for stress in their daily lives as well as the physical, mental, emotional, and social impact caused by CD. Therefore, this study aimed to develop and validate a specific questionnaire to evaluate the QoL of parents and caregivers of children and adolescents with CD. Overall results showed that a higher family income resulted in a higher score of the worries domain. In addition, having another illness besides CD decreased the QoL (except in the worries domain). The other variables studied did not present a statistically significant impact on the QoL, which was shown to be low in all aspects. Knowledge of the QoL is important to help implement effective strategies to improve celiac patients’ quality of life and reduce their physical, emotional, and social burden.

All that a physician should know about gluten-free diet

Gluten-free diet (GFD) is the only definitive treatment for patients with celiac disease (CeD). Strict adherence to GFD improves the symptoms, nutritional deficiencies, and the overall well-being of the patients. The management of CeD is truly different and unique from the treatment of other medical or surgical diseases. While prescribing a GFD is easy, the key to the success lies in the dietary counseling by a nutrition specialist/physician and maintenance of adherence to the prescribed diet by the patient. When restricting gluten from all possible sources, it is pertinent to recommend a diet that is healthy and balanced for patients with celiac disease. Those following GFD must be counseled properly on the ways of balancing their diets and of avoiding cross contamination. They should be taught how to read food labels properly and given tips for dining out or during traveling. Regular follow up with patients is required for assessing the compliance and monitoring growth and the status of recovery. In this review article, we have compiled, for the physicians and gastroenterologists, the relevant information about GFD including counseling, adherence, nutritional adequacy, and many other related issues.

Performing routine follow-up biopsy 1 year after diagnosis does not affect long-term outcomes in coeliac disease

BACKGROUND

A repeat biopsy is recommended, but often omitted in coeliac disease patients on a gluten-free diet. The effect of performing or not performing repeat biopsies is currently unknown.

AIM

To identify factors associated with and the significance of lacking biopsy for long-term outcome. Predictors and the importance of incomplete histological recovery after 1 year was investigated in re-biopsied patients.

METHODS

A total of 760 patients participated in a nationwide follow-up study. Medical data were gathered via interviews and patient records, and blood samples were drawn for serology. Current symptoms and well-being were assessed by validated PGWB, SF-36 and GSRS questionnaires.

RESULTS

Malabsorption was more common among those with a repeat biopsy (46%) than those without repeat biopsy (33%), P < 0.001, as were severe symptoms at diagnosis (24% vs. 16%, P = 0.05) and concomitant gastrointestinal (40% vs. 32%, P = 0.049) or musculoskeletal (35% vs. 27%, P = 0.023) diseases such as arthritis, osteoporosis and back pain. Repeat biopsy was more rare in subjects diagnosed in private care (11% vs. 23%, P < 0.001) or by screening (10% vs. 16%, P = 0.010). The groups were comparable as to current symptoms and dietary adherence, but those without re-biopsy were less confident of their diet (89% vs. 94%, P = 0.002) and more often seropositive on diet (14% vs. 9%, P = 0.012). They reported better SF-36 physical functioning (P = 0.043) and less pain and indigestion (P = 0.013 and P = 0.046 respectively) and total GSRS (P = 0.052) score. Incomplete mucosal recovery was predicted by more advanced histological (P < 0.001) and serological (P = 0.001) disease at diagnosis, whereas the groups did not differ in long-term adherence, symptoms, seropositivity, questionnaire scores, frequency of fractures or malignancies.

CONCLUSIONS

Severe disease at diagnosis predicted the record of a repeat biopsy and incomplete mucosal recovery. Neither lacking biopsy nor incomplete recovery in a relative short time span of 1 year was associated with poorer long-term outcome, although survival bias cannot be excluded.

Challenges in gluten-free diet in coeliac disease: Prague consensus

BACKGROUND

New treatments in coeliac disease are being vigorously pursued to either replace or facilitate the difficult-tofollow gluten-free diet.

DESIGN

The present review intends to summarise the challenges in gluten-free diet adherence during the transitional period, as reflected in the last Prague consensus, published in 2016.

RESULTS

The honourable panel members recommended that dietary adherence and the consequences of nonadherence represent key components for discussion in the transitional period setting.

CONCLUSIONS

There are numerous difficulties in adhering to gluten withdrawal, but the transition period from adolescence to young adulthood is considered a fragile and high-risk period for intentional and unintentional gluten intake.

Gluten ataxia is better classified as non-celiac gluten sensitivity than as celiac disease: a comparative clinical study

Gluten ataxia (GA) has customarily been considered to be the main neurological manifestation of celiac disease (CD). In recent years, the condition of non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) has been defined, which includes some patients who are not considered "true celiacs." We performed a comparative clinicopathological study of these three entities. We studied 31 GA, 48 CD and 37 NCGS patients, prospectively in the same center for a period of 7 years. The protocol study included two serological determinations for gluten sensitivity [anti-gliadin IgA and IgG (AGA) and anti-tissue transglutaminase IgA (TG) antibodies], HLA-DQ2 typing, and duodenal histological assessment. Demographics and investigative findings were compared. Females were 55 % in GA, 75 % in CD (p < 0.001), and 47 % in NCGS (N.S.). GA patients were older (59 ± 14 years) than CD (43 ± 13 years) and NCGS (41 ± 8 years) groups (p < 0.001). AGA positivity was higher in GA (100 %) than in CD (48 %) groups (p < 0.001), but similar to NCGS patients (89 %; N.S.); TG positivity was lower in GA (3.2 %) than in CD (33.3 %; p < 0.001), but similar to NCGS (2.7 %; N.S.). DQ2 (+) was lower in GA (32.2 %) than in CD (89.6 %; p < 0.001), but similar to NCGS (29.7 %; N.S.). Lymphocytic enteritis (Marsh type 1) was lower in GA (9.6 %) than in CD (66.7 %; p < 0.001), but similar to NCGS (10.8 %; N.S.). The other gluten sensitivity-related characteristics measured were different to CD patients, but very close to NCGS. We conclude that GA patients are better classified within the NCGS group, than within CD.

Gliadin-Specific T-Cells Mobilized in the Peripheral Blood of Coeliac Patients by Short Oral Gluten Challenge: Clinical Applications

Celiac disease (CD) is a common lifelong food intolerance triggered by dietary gluten affecting 1% of the general population. Gliadin-specific T-cell lines and T-cell clones obtained from intestinal biopsies have provided great support in the investigation of immuno-pathogenesis of CD. In the early 2000 a new in vivo, less invasive, approach was established aimed to evaluate the adaptive gliadin-specific T-cell response in peripheral blood of celiac patients on a gluten free diet. In fact, it has been demonstrated that three days of ingestion of wheat-containing food induces the mobilization of memory T lymphocytes reactive against gliadin from gut-associated lymphoid tissue into peripheral blood of CD patients. Such antigen-specific T-cells releasing interferon-γ can be transiently detected by using the enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISPOT) assays or by flow cytometry tetramer technology. This paper discusses the suitability of this in vivo tool to investigate the repertoire of gluten pathogenic peptides, to support CD diagnosis, and to assess the efficacy of novel therapeutic strategies. A systematic review of all potential applications of short oral gluten challenge is provided.

The Perceived Social Burden in Celiac Disease

In the present paper, we discuss the change in celiac disease (CD) awareness and perception through patients' concerns and the most recent literature. Nowadays CD has moved in the public awareness (both doctors and population) from a rare disease to a common one and the gluten free diet (GFD) is no longer the exclusive therapy for CD patients but is becoming a popular health choice for everybody. Gluten-free food, once hard to find and requiring home preparation, is now available at restaurants and grocery stores. However, the quality of life of those affected by CD seems to be still compromised and this is particularly true for those who find it difficult to adhere to a GFD and those who were asymptomatic at the time of diagnosis. Intervention at diagnosis and follow-up to improve the patients' adaptation to the condition and its limitations should be implemented.