Yes, celiac disease can be a cause of gastritis, specifically a form known as lymphocytic gastritis.
Understanding the Connection
While gastritis is often associated with factors like H. pylori infection, certain forms of gastritis can be linked to celiac disease. The provided research highlights a significant connection between lymphocytic gastritis and celiac disease in children:
- Lymphocytic Gastritis and Celiac Disease: A study found that 9 out of 25 children diagnosed with celiac disease also had lymphocytic gastritis. Notably, none of the 36 children with H. pylori infection presented with this specific type of gastritis.
- Implication: This strong correlation suggests that lymphocytic gastritis in children is highly linked to gluten intolerance, the underlying issue in celiac disease.
Key Points
Here's a breakdown of the important insights from the reference:
| Feature | Celiac Disease (with Lymphocytic Gastritis) | H. pylori Infection |
|---|---|---|
| Lymphocytic Gastritis | Present in 9 of 25 children | Absent in 36 children |
| Primary Association | Gluten intolerance | Bacterial infection |
Why This Matters
The research suggests that if a child presents with lymphocytic gastritis, celiac disease should be a strong consideration for diagnosis. This is especially crucial since early diagnosis and management of celiac disease are essential to prevent long-term complications.
Clinical Significance
- Diagnosis: Recognizing the association between celiac and lymphocytic gastritis can lead to earlier diagnosis of celiac disease.
- Treatment: Treating the underlying celiac disease with a gluten-free diet can potentially help resolve lymphocytic gastritis.
- Patient Outcomes: Prompt management of celiac disease improves overall health and minimizes associated risks.
In conclusion, while not the only cause of gastritis, celiac disease is strongly linked to a specific type, lymphocytic gastritis, particularly in children.
