celiac disease

American  

[see-lee-ak di-zeez] / ˈsi liˌæk dɪˌziz /

especially British, coeliac disease

noun

Pathology.

1. a hereditary digestive disorder in which eating gluten causes an autoimmune response within the small intestine, damaging the organ and leading to symptoms such as stomach pain, constipation or diarrhea, fatty stools, and malnutrition.

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celiac disease Scientific  

/ sē′lē-ăk′ /

1. A gastrointestinal disease characterized by an inability to absorb the protein gluten, resulting in diarrhea, the passage of stools having a high fat content, and nutritional and vitamin deficiencies. Individuals with celiac disease must avoid ingesting products made from grains containing gluten, including wheat, rye, barley, and oats.

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Etymology

Origin of celiac disease

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

Fry, who has celiac disease, says she found limited options of things to eat while she waited.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 8, 2025

"My wife and one of my five children have celiac disease," said Rami Taha who lives in central Gaza.

From BBC • Jul. 27, 2025

In celiac disease, two specific HLA proteins, namely HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8, are strongly associated with the condition.

From Science Daily • May 16, 2024

Blood tests can help screen for celiac disease, so others having symptoms like yours should see their doctors.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 17, 2024

She added that she knows Disney’s Disability Access Service “inside and out” and works with clients who have mobility impairments, autism spectrum disorders, celiac disease and other issues.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2024