The pathogenesis of coeliac disease

Coeliac disease is a common condition and its prevalence in UK is now thought to be approximately 1:100. It is being diagnosed and treated more frequently as awareness at the primary care level has increased. Coeliac disease is a complex disorder and is frequently associated with other disease processes. The management of these patients needs to take on a holistic approach, whilst the physician needs to be aware of the rare complications.

This article gives an up-to-date review of the literature written on the pathogenesis of coeliac disease. We have attempted to paint a picture from beginning to end, whilst clarifying the grey areas in between. General epidemiological factors are reviewed before looking at genetic risk factors. We assess the sensitivity and specificity of the investigative modalities available for clinical use and comment on optimum management of these patients thereafter.

The future of coeliac disease looks promising for patients with several novel therapies on the horizon. Whilst further work is still needed to breed out the toxic epitopes from wheat, novel therapies may come from other areas such as the work aimed at restoring normal tolerance to gluten.