Celiac Crisis: A Rare and Serious Condition Resulting in Death

Abstract

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease of the small intestine, resulted from villus damage and malabsorbtion due to ingestion of gluten; and production of antibodies to gliadin. The disease can manifest with various presentations. Celiac crisis was described as an acute, serious, life-threatening form of celiac disease about sixty years ago with a higher incidence among pediatric patients than adults. It is characterized by gastrointestinal symptoms like profuse diarrhea and severe metabolic distubances like hyponatremia and hypoproteinemia. Early suspicion and detection is important. This case report presents a 54-year-old female patient who died from celiac crisis and sepsis.