Celiac Disease

Dr. Sulaiman Bin Yusof

MbChB (Sheffield) M.Med (Surg) FRCSEd (Gen Surg)
蘇萊曼·尤索夫博士

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the body reacts abnormally to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.

When individuals with celiac disease consume gluten, it triggers an immune response that damages the villi – tiny finger-like projections lining the small intestine. This damage leads to reduced nutrient absorption, which can cause digestive issues and long-term complications, such as malnutrition, anaemia, and osteoporosis.

Symptoms of Celiac Disease

Celiac disease can present a wide range of symptoms that vary among individuals, which include:

Digestive Issues: Diarrhoea, bloating, gas, and constipation are common, especially in children. Adults may experience chronic abdominal pain and discomfort that can affect daily activities.

Fatigue: Chronic fatigue can develop due to poor absorption of essential nutrients, leaving the body undernourished.

Weight Changes: Unexplained weight loss occurs as the body struggles to absorb nutrients from food, leading to malnutrition. In some cases, individuals may gain weight due to inflammation-related water retention or fat accumulation.

Skin Rash: Dermatitis herpetiformis is a skin manifestation of celiac disease, characterised by intensely itchy, blistering rashes. These rashes typically appear on the elbows, knees, buttocks, and sometimes the scalp or back.

Anaemia: Iron deficiency anaemia can result from malabsorption of iron and other nutrients, presenting symptoms like paleness, dizziness, and shortness of breath, which can worsen without treatment.

Causes of Celiac Disease

Celiac disease occurs due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Common causes include:

Genetic Factors

Celiac disease is associated with inherited genetic markers, particularly HLA-DQ2 or HLA-DQ8. Individuals with these genes have a higher risk of developing the condition. Coeliac disease has a strong hereditary component, with people who have close relatives with the condition being more likely to develop it themselves.

Autoimmune Conditions

Individuals with other autoimmune disorders, such as type 1 diabetes or autoimmune thyroid disease, are at a higher risk of developing coeliac disease. The presence of one autoimmune condition may make the immune system more susceptible to developing others.

Environmental Triggers

Stress, pregnancy, infections, or surgery can sometimes trigger the onset of celiac disease in genetically predisposed individuals. These factors may disrupt the immune system and initiate the abnormal response to gluten.

Diagnosis of Celiac Disease

Diagnosing celiac disease involves several tests to confirm the condition and assess the extent of intestinal damage.

Blood Tests

Blood tests detect the presence of antibodies associated with celiac disease. Elevated levels of tissue transglutaminase (tTG-IgA) or other relevant antibodies suggest an immune response to gluten.

Genetic Testing

Genetic testing identifies whether a person carries the HLA-DQ2 or HLA-DQ8 genes, which increase the risk of celiac disease. However, having these genes alone is not enough for a diagnosis, as many people with these markers never develop the condition.

Endoscopy with Biopsy

To confirm celiac disease, a doctor may perform an endoscopy to examine the small intestine and take tissue samples (biopsies) to assess damage to the villi.

Are Your Symptoms Affecting Your Quality Of Life?

Consult our MOH-accredited specialist for an accurate diagnosis & personalised treatment plan today.

Treatment Options for Celiac Disease

As a chronic condition, celiac disease treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing further damage to the small intestine. Treatment methods include:

Non-Surgical Treatment
Gluten-Free Diet

The primary treatment is a strict gluten-free diet, which requires avoiding wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. Safe alternatives include gluten-free grains like rice and quinoa. This diet helps to heal the intestine and prevent symptoms from recurring.

Nutritional Supplements

Supplements such as iron, calcium, vitamin D, and B vitamins may be needed to address deficiencies caused by poor nutrient absorption. These supplements support recovery and help maintain overall health.

Medication

Medications may help manage specific symptoms or complications of coeliac disease. Dapsone or other anti-inflammatory drugs can control the rashes associated with dermatitis herpetiformis. In cases of severe intestinal inflammation or persistent symptoms, steroids or immunosuppressants may be prescribed to reduce immune activity and support healing.

Surgical Treatment
Small Bowel Resection

A small bowel resection involves removing a damaged portion of the small intestine. It may be necessary if complications arise, such as intestinal cancer, obstruction, or ulcers, or if severe intestinal damage occurs. The remaining parts of the intestine are reconnected to allow digestion to continue. This surgery is only considered when dietary changes and medications are not effective.

Managing Celiac Disease

Strict adherence to a gluten-free diet is required to prevent complications.

Regular monitoring of nutrient levels helps address deficiencies early.

It is necessary to avoid hidden gluten in processed foods, medications, and supplements, and to prevent cross-contamination during food handling.

billing & insurance

Partnered Programs & Insurance Plans

For Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents and Foreigners. Please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plans.

*Extended Panel

image

Dr. Sulaiman Bin Yusof

MbChB (Sheffield)

M.Med (Surgery)

FRCSEd (General Surgery)

蘇萊曼·尤索夫博士

Dr. Sulaiman Yusof is a distinguished Senior Consultant in colorectal and general surgery, boasting over 15 years of expertise. His passion lies in minimally invasive techniques, particularly robotic surgery, where he has achieved remarkable success using the Da Vinci Xi system. Dr. Sulaiman is dedicated to delivering high-quality, personalized, and empathetic care, always striving for the best outcomes for his patients.

Education & Specialist Training
  • MbChB(Sheffield)
  • M.Med(Surgery)
  • FRCSEd(General Surgery)

Dr. Sulaiman’s journey began at the University of Sheffield, where he graduated in 2002. He honed his skills during his house officer and basic surgical training in the UK before returning to Singapore. There, he completed his Advanced Surgical Training at Changi General Hospital and earned the Joint Speciality Fellowship in General Surgery in 2013.

Contact Us

Please leave us a message and our friendly clinic staff will be in touch with you shortly.

    For Faster Response, Call us!

    (65)‎ 6643‎ 9922

    our locations

    Gleneagles Medical Centre

    6 Napier Road #06-16
    Singapore 258499

    Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital

    38 Irrawaddy Road, #10-48/49
    Singapore 329563

    Parkway East Hospital

    #05-08, 319 Joo Chiat Place
    Singapore 427989

    Mount Alvernia Hospital

    #08-62, Medical Centre D
    820 Thomson Road
    Singapore 574623

    Connexion

    Farrer Park Medical Centre #14-12
    1 Farrer Park Station Road
    Singapore 217562

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can celiac disease lead to other health conditions?

    Yes, untreated celiac disease can result in complications such as osteoporosis due to poor calcium absorption and an increased risk of certain cancers, including intestinal lymphoma. Strict adherence to a gluten-free diet helps reduce these risks and improve long-term health.

    Can celiac disease affect children differently than adults?

    Yes, children often experience growth delays, irritability, and digestive issues, while adults may develop fatigue and anaemia from long-term nutrient deficiencies. Early treatment is key to preventing complications and supporting healthy development.

    How soon do symptoms improve after starting a gluten-free diet?

    Some people experience relief from symptoms within a few days to weeks after eliminating gluten. However, intestinal healing can take several months to years, depending on the severity of the damage.

    +65 8491 1525