A UK study assessing the population prevalence of self-reported gluten sensitivity and referral characteristics to secondary care

• DOI: 10.1097/01.meg.0000435546.87251.f7
• Publication Date: 2013-11-11T11:39:41Z
• Authors: Imran Aziz; Nina R. Lewis; Marios Hadjivassi...; Stefanie N. Winfield; Nathan Rugg; Alan Kelsall; Laurence Newrick; David S. Sanders
• Keywords: Gluten free

Background Reports suggest that gluten sensitivity (GS) exists in the absence of coeliac disease (CD). This clinical entity has been termed noncoeliac (NCGS). Objectives To determine population prevalence self-reported GS and referral characteristics to secondary care. Patients methods A UK population-based questionnaire screened for related symptoms. Diagnostic outcomes were also analyzed patients referred care with GS. CD diagnosis entailed a positive serology (endomysial and/or tissue transglutaminase antibodies) plus Marsh 1–3 on duodenal biopsies. NCGS was based exclusion CD. Clinical comparisons made between Results total 1002 adults (female 55%, mean age 39 years). The 13% 79%, 39.5 years, P<0.0001), 3.7% consuming gluten-free diet 0.8% known have doctor Individuals had an increased fulfilling Rome III criteria irritable bowel syndrome, comparison those without (20 vs. 3.89%, odds ratio 6.23, P<0.0001). In 200 84%, 39.6 years) investigated, whom 7% found 93% NCGS. All human leucocyte antigen DQ2 or DQ8 compared 53% cases (P=0.0003). Nutritional deficiencies (P≤0.003), autoimmune disorders (23.1 9.7%, P=0.0001) lower BMI (23.7 25.8, P=0.001) significantly associated Conclusion is commonly symptoms suggesting association syndrome. majority NCGS, which demonstrates immunologic difference