Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease where the immune systems attacks and destroys the mucosal layer of the small intestine, flattening the villi that are responsible for secreting enzymes that digest food, and absorbing the resulting nutrients so the body can use them. This process is referred to malabsorption and is responsible for the vast majority of symptoms, complications and damage that celiac disease can do.

Side effects from malabsorption are numerous, weight loss, diarrhea, bloating, flatulence, and cramping will be the most common and first noticed symptoms. Over time vitamin deficiencies will occur, iron being one of the most common ones causing anemia. Often it will be the signs of malabsorption and a diagnosis of anemia that will lead to a test for celiac disease as these are normally the first symptoms if there are any symptoms at all.

Other consequences of malabsorption can include thin blood and excess bleed because of a vitamin K deficiency. A vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to nerve damage, and low protein levels may lead to fluid retention and edema. Impaired bone formation, dental problems, osteoporosis, skin problems and poor vision are all signs of possible malabsorption and malnutrition. Malabsorption can also lead to a higher risk of cancers of the intestinal track if not diagnosed and treated promptly.

Malabsorption can be cause by other diseases so it is important be sure to get a test done that is specific to celiac disease because just testing for malabsorption will not prove or disprove the presence of celiac disease. Blood tests can detect whether a person has the IgA antibodies that are responsible for celiac disease, and a biopsy can measure the amount of damage to the small intestine.

Malabsorption as caused by celiac disease is completely reversible with strict adherence to a gluten free diet in the vast majority of patients. In cases of malabsorption that is resistant to treatment there are other treatments that can suppress the immune system and allow the damage to heal.