Celiac and coeliac disease are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the small intestine when gluten is eaten. Coeliac disease, on the other hand, is a genetic disorder in which the body is unable to digest gluten properly.
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the small intestine when gluten is eaten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley, as well as some other grains. When a person with celiac disease eats gluten, their body mounts an immune response, which causes inflammation and damage to the small intestine. This, in turn, can lead to a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea. Celiac disease is often diagnosed through a combination of blood tests and biopsies.
Coeliac Disease
Coeliac disease is a genetic disorder in which the body is unable to digest gluten properly. Coeliac disease is caused by a mutation in the gene that encodes a protein called HLA-DQ2. This mutation leads to an abnormal response to gluten, causing an immune reaction in the small intestine. Symptoms of coeliac disease are similar to those of celiac disease, but may also include anemia, fatigue, and skin rashes. Coeliac disease is usually diagnosed with a combination of blood tests, genetic tests, and biopsies.
Difference Between Celiac and Coeliac Disease
The main difference between celiac and coeliac disease is the cause of the disorder. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder, while coeliac disease is a genetic disorder. Additionally, celiac disease is usually diagnosed with a combination of blood tests and biopsies, while coeliac disease is usually diagnosed with a combination of blood tests, genetic tests, and biopsies. Finally, the treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet, while the treatment for coeliac disease is a gluten-free diet and medication.