Lymphoma And Celiac

[blackbeltmom]

About four years ago my mother passed away from Lymphoma, It was very fast, less than one year. I know that she had had more than 50 polyps removed from her colon over the course of a few years. She aslo seemed to have many problems with her stomach bloating even when she did not eat much. Is it possible that she had Celiac's Desease and no one knew it? I have been complaining of problems for years, and was just diagnosed this past week. Should all my sisters and my son be tested?

Thank you for any help.

[ravenwoodglass]

Yes, unfortunately it is quite possible she was and was never diagnosed or that she was diagnosed in childhood and was thought to 'outgrow' it. This was common thinking for quite a bit.

You should have all first degree relatives tested, your sisters and brothers, father, sons and daughter etc. It is just a blood test to screen so you do need to remember that blood tests miss up to 30% of us, including those at the end stages. Folks that have what could be celiac related disorders, a list can be found on the home page here, should be encouraged to try the diet no matter what the test results.

[MDRB]

Well, it is certainly a possibility. Most celiacs have a family history of the disease. Unfortunately there is just not enough awareness about celiac disease and it is extremely under diagnosed. Even today many people do not get diagnosed until the disease manifests itself as cancer. I was diagnosed a while ago and am in the process of trying to convince my mum and brother to get tested, I think it would be a really good idea for your sisters to also get tested.

I'm really sorry to hear about your mother.

[babysteps]

condolences on your mother's death

my mom also died 4 yrs ago of lymphoma - the tumors were on her adrenal glands - like your mom, very quick (less than 2 months from first related dr visit to death)

dr's said "don't worry, nothing she had was hereditary" ('spots' on lung, abnormal brain scan in addition to cancer).

now, looking back, I'm convinced she had celiac. 2 of my cousins (her nieces) have celiac. my mom's twin (one of her daughters is one of my celiac cousins) is convinced she reacts to "potassium sorbate", but we all think it's gluten

so I would definitely get the blood tests done for your sister & your offspring.

also (after the bloodtest), even if the blood test is normal, encourage them to *try* a gluten-free diet for a few weeks to see if they have a dietary reaction.

My bloodtests were "normal" but my dietary reaction is strong and given actual & apparent family history, I am steering clear of gluten! I feel so awful when I get glutened (and so much better gluten-free) that I am very motivated to avoid it.