Celiac Disease
Comparison of Gluten-Related Disorders
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Our gastroenterologists and GI dietitians deliver customized care for celiac disease and other gluten-associated disorders.
Gluten-related disorders can share similar symptoms, but they differ significantly in their underlying causes, diagnostic criteria, and long-term health implications. Understanding these distinctions is important for ensuring an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The comparison table below provides an overview of the key features of celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, wheat allergy, and other related conditions to help you better understand how these disorders differ.
| Celiac Disease | Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity | Wheat Allergy | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | Genetic, autoimmune disorder, gluten ingestion triggers damage to small intestine |
Intolerance to gluten or other wheat components without damage to small intestine |
Immune response to one or more of the proteins found in wheat (can include gluten) |
| GI symptoms | Diarrhea, bloating, abdominal pain | Diarrhea, bloating, abdominal pain | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, irritation of mouth or throat |
| Extra-intestinal findings | Weight loss, malutrition, iron deficiency, dental caries, bone loss, skin issues, neurological disorders, liver dysfunction, joint pain, hair loss, fatigue |
Brain fog, neurological disorders, joint pain, fatigue |
Hives, rash, nasal congestion, eye irritation, difficulty breathing |
| Positive antibody test | Yes | Variable | No |
| Abnormal intestinal biopsy | Yes | No | No |
| Treatment | Strict adherence to a gluten-free lifestyle | Adherence to a wheat-free/glutent-free diet (level of adherence variable) |
Strict adherence to a wheat-free lifestyle |