celiac disease

[ see-lee-ak di-zeez ]

noun

, Pathology.

1. a hereditary digestive disorder in which eating gluten causes an autoimmune response within the small intestine, damaging the organ and leading to symptoms such as stomach pain, constipation or diarrhea, fatty stools, and malnutrition.

celiac disease

/ sē′lē-ăk′ /

1. A gastrointestinal disease characterized by an inability to absorb the protein gluten, resulting in diarrhea, the passage of stools having a high fat content, and nutritional and vitamin deficiencies. Individuals with celiac disease must avoid ingesting products made from grains containing gluten, including wheat, rye, barley, and oats.

Word History and Origins

Origin of celiac disease¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

The key finding of the study: a particular protein fragment formed in active celiac disease forms nanosized structures, the so-called oligomers, and accumulates in a gut epithelial cell model.

From Science Daily

Then, I was diagnosed with celiac disease and had to change my diet.

From Seattle Times

She added that she knows Disney’s Disability Access Service “inside and out” and works with clients who have mobility impairments, autism spectrum disorders, celiac disease and other issues.

From Los Angeles Times

A previously energetic little boy, he now has asthma, celiac disease, joint pain, nausea, intense fatigue, and other health conditions, all of which doctors believe were caused by the virus.

From Science Magazine

Ryker has celiac disease, an illness caused by an immune reaction to gluten.

From Seattle Times