Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine

  Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine and is triggered by the consumption of gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, and it causes an immune response in individuals with Celiac disease. When gluten is ingested, it damages the lining of the small intestine, leading to malabsorption of nutrients and a wide range of symptoms. To diagnose Celiac disease, doctors typically start with blood tests that measure the levels of certain antibodies. The most common test is the tissue transglutaminase antibody (tTG-IgA) test, which looks for the presence of antibodies that are produced when the small intestine is damaged by gluten. If the blood test comes back positive, a biopsy of the small intestine may be performed to confirm the diagnosis. During the biopsy, a small piece of tissue is taken from the small intestine and examined under a microscope for signs of damage. In Matthew's case, the blood tests would likely show elevated levels of tTG-IgA antibodies, indicating that his small intestine has been damaged by gluten. The biopsy would further confirm this diagnosis by revealing characteristic changes in the lining of his small intestine. Once diagnosed with Celiac disease, the only effective treatment is a strict gluten-free diet. This means avoiding all foods and products containing wheat, barley, and rye. This can be challenging as gluten is found in many common foods and ingredients, but with proper education and support, individuals with Celiac disease can successfully manage their condition. In addition to following a gluten-free diet, Matthew should also address his anemia and lactose intolerance. Anemia is commonly seen in individuals with Celiac disease due to malabsorption of iron and other nutrients. Iron supplements may be prescribed to help correct this deficiency. As for lactose intolerance, it often develops in individuals with Celiac disease due to damage to the lining of the small intestine, which affects the production of lactase enzyme. Matthew should avoid consuming lactose-containing foods or use lactase supplements to aid digestion. In conclusion, Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by the consumption of gluten. It can be diagnosed through blood tests and confirmed with a biopsy of the small intestine. Treatment involves following a strict gluten-free diet, addressing nutrient deficiencies such as anemia, and managing lactose intolerance if present. With proper adherence to a gluten-free lifestyle and necessary dietary adjustments, individuals with Celiac disease can experience improvements in their symptoms and overall well-being.

Sample Answer