New Study Shows Link Between Celiac Disease and Microscopic Colitis in Female Population

Celiac.com 02/26/2024 - A recent study, conducted by researchers Bodil Roth and Bodil Ohlsson, sheds light on the association between celiac disease and microscopic colitis, providing valuable insights into the clinical course, and subtypes of the disease in a female population. 

Microscopic colitis is characterized by chronic inflammation of the colon, and has long been linked to autoimmune conditions, smoking, and certain medications. Their study aimed to investigate this connection, considering various subtypes of microscopic colitis and their clinical presentations.

Celiac.com Sponsor (A12):
The research, which involved 240 women aged 73 years or older diagnosed with microscopic colitis, revealed intriguing findings. Out of the 158 women who agreed to participate, half experienced the simultaneous onset of microscopic colitis and celiac disease. Notably, celiac disease was most prevalent in patients with lymphocytic colitis, with a significantly higher incidence compared to other subtypes of microscopic colitis.

Analysis of blood samples also revealed the presence of anti-transglutaminase antibodies, a marker for celiac disease, in some participants with one episode of microscopic colitis. Moreover, corticosteroid use was more common in patients with collagenous colitis and refractory microscopic colitis, highlighting the diverse clinical manifestations of the disease.

The study also explored the impact of smoking habits on the prevalence of microscopic colitis and associated symptoms. Past smokers showed a higher prevalence of one-episode microscopic colitis, while current smoking was associated with an increased likelihood of experiencing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)-like symptoms.

Significant Association Found Between Celiac Disease and Lymphocytic Colitis

Upon adjusting for smoking habits, the researchers found a significant association between celiac disease and lymphocytic colitis, suggesting a potential link between these conditions. However, further research is needed to elucidate the nature of this relationship and whether lymphocytic colitis in conjunction with celiac disease should be classified as a distinct entity or a variant of celiac disease.

These findings underscore the complex interplay between autoimmune conditions and gastrointestinal disorders, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive clinical evaluation and tailored management approaches. As researchers continue to unravel the intricacies of these diseases, advancements in diagnosis and treatment hold promise for improving the lives of individuals affected by celiac disease and microscopic colitis.

Read more in BMC Gastroenterology volume 24, Article number: 70 (2024)