Celiac disease: history and modern era

Abstract

Celiac disease is one of the oldest human diseases, dating back to the Neolithic Era with the advent of the farming culture. In over 10,000 years, celiac disease has evolved from an unknown and frightening "sickness of the coeliac" to one of the most common genetically determined conditions with a thoroughly understood pathogenesis and effective treatment. Current epidemiological data suggest that the global prevalence of celiac disease averages 1%, with most cases unrecognized. Given the diversity of clinical manifestations, a selective screening program for celiac disease among patients with some suspicious symptoms proved its value only partially. Most experts point to the need for universal screening to effectively detect asymptomatic forms of celiac disease and early initiation of nutritional therapy to avoid serious complications.