ABSTRACT
COELIAC DISEASE Coeliac disease (gluten-sensitive enteropathy)—a reaction to gliaden, a gluten protein found in wheat, rye and barley-causes an autoimmune reaction and damage to the jejunum, causing malabsorption. Other autoimmune disorders, IgA deficiency, and dermatitis herpetiformis may be associated. Spongiosis is seen in the oral mucosa and, in severe coeliac disease, affected children may suffer ulcers, glossitis, angular stomatitis and tooth enamel defects (which can also be seen in healthy first-degree relatives).
