Celiac Disease (Newly Revised and Updated): A Hidden Epidemic

This book evolved from the combination of two sometimes diverse perspectives: that of the doctor and the patient. It incorporates an understanding of both the science and the experience of an illness and the collective knowledge we both have acquired in the process. This revised edition reflects the current developments in a rapidly changing field.
All of the information in this book is based on current knowledge about the causes, manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and consequences of celiac disease. It is derived from an in-depth analysis of current medical literature, extensive clinical experience, patient and professional interviews, as well as ongoing research into celiac disease and its many complications.
Other medical experts may have differing opinions and interpretations of the medical literature. Wherever pertinent, the authors have attempted to note conflicting points of view on key issues as well as topics that have not as yet been scientifically resolved.
Many of the peer review articles we have consulted may not be readily accessible to all readers. For this reason, we have not included footnotes for all medical facts and figures. Instead, we have listed good basic review articles and books for different subjects in the Appendices.
The personal stories and diagnoses throughout this book are based primarily on the patient population seen at the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University.
The population of the greater New York tri-state area is very large and ethnically diverse. Also, the patients who seek help at a major medical center may present with more severe and complex symptoms. We understand that this may or may not be typical of the celiac profile in any given city or region of the United States. Nevertheless, we feel that the cross-section of patients chosen for this book reflects the face of celiac disease in the United States today.