Final answer:
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where an immune response to gluten causes damage to the small intestine's microvilli, which affects nutrient absorption. It affects about 1% of Americans and requires a gluten-free diet for management. Diagnosis involves serological testing and possibly an endoscopy and biopsy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Celiac Disease Overview
Celiac disease is a condition affecting the small intestine and can manifest at any age. It is an autoimmune disorder triggered by a reaction to gluten, a protein found in certain grains, leading to damage in the lining of the small intestines.
The damaged microvilli result in impaired nutrient absorption, which can cause symptoms such as weight loss, anemia, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Moreover, it's estimated that about 1% of Americans have celiac disease, requiring them to follow a strict gluten-free diet. This dietary requirement helps in symptom management and reduces the risks of further complications.
Diagnosis and Prevalence
Diagnosis is typically made through serological tests for specific IgA antibodies, followed by an endoscopy and biopsy. Although celiac disease's prevalence is about 1%, serological screening has shown that not everyone with positive antibodies displays symptoms. Additionally, the prevalence of celiac disease varies by region, with higher rates seen in certain countries.
People with celiac disease must eliminate all sources of gluten from their diet, which is challenging due to its presence in many foods. While gluten is harmful to individuals with celiac disease, medical experts advise that people without such a diagnosis do not need to adhere to a gluten-free diet as it may lead to nutritional deficiencies and is often costly.