Celiac Disease
Cause of Celiac Disease
The cause of Celiac Disease, also known as celiac sprue, or gluten sensitive enteropathy (GSE), is unknown. Research indicates that Celiac Disease is strongly associated with a group of genes on Chromosome 6. These genes (HLA class II) are involved in the regulation of the body's immune response to the gluten protein fractions.
One out of 133 people in the United States is affected with celiac disease. Celiac Disease occurs in 5-15% of the offspring and siblings of a person with celiac disease. In 70% of identical twin pairs, both twins have the disease. It is strongly suggested that family members be tested, even if asymptomatic. Family members who have an autoimmune disease are at a 25% increased risk of having celiac disease.
