Coeliac disease: clinical review

Content developed by MIMS Learning http://www.mimslearning.co.uk/

INTRODUCTION

Coeliac disease (CD) is a common gastrointestinal disease characterised by small bowel mucosal injury and nutrient malabsorption in genetically susceptible individuals following dietary ingestion of gluten. This module describes the epidemiology and aetiology, diagnosis and management of coeliac disease.

Key learning points for general practice nurses include typical and atypical presentations, prognosis and follow-up.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

After completing this module the general practice nurse should be better able to:

• Identify patients at high risk of coeliac disease based on their genetic or environmental make up
• Understand the link between coeliac disease and possible complications such as lymphoma
• Advise patients on the management of coeliac disease especially on the role of gluten-free diet

AUTHORS

Dr Arun Rajendran, gastroenterologist, St Mary’s Hospital, Paddington and Dr Jeremy Nightingale, Consultant gastroenterologist, Leonard-Jones intestinal failure unit, St Mark’s Hospital, Harrow, Middlesex