| Sub-title | |
| Authors | C Sciberras C Vella V Grech |
| Abstract | The prevalence of coeliac disease in individuals with Downs syndrome is elevated. The objective of this study was to assess the frequency of coeliac disease in individuals with Downs syndrome in Malta. 100 Downs individuals were screened for coeliac disease. A history was taken from all cases who were examined and measured for weight and height. A full blood count, antigliadin (IgG and IgA) and antiendomysial antibodies were taken. Equivocal cases were also screened for antireticulin antibodies. Jejunal biopsy was recommended in all serologically positive cases. The frequency of coeliac disease in Downs syndrome was 8%, which is much higher than that found from screening the general population. Screening for coeliac disease in all individuals with Downs syndrome is therefore recommended. |
Published in: | |
| Journal | Malta Medical Journal |
| Volume | Volume 15 (suppl) |
| Pages | - |
| Date | |
| Link to journal | |
| Key words | prevalence, coeliac disease, downs syndrome |