Post gastroenteritis gluten intolerance

ABSTRACT

The spectrum of gluten related disorder might be much broader than currently believed. It is unknown why non-coeliac gluten sensitivity affects individuals at different ages. It is quite possible that triggering factors like infection might play an essential role in manifestation of this disorder. Similar to secondary lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance might be a common occurrence behind persistent symptoms after gastroenteritis. Presenting symptoms may depend on etiological factors and the affected portion of gastrointestinal [GI] anatomy. Therefore symptoms might be related to the upper GI tract like functional dyspepsia, or the lower GI tract like diarrhoea and constipation or a combination of both as in our patients. This case highlights that intolerance to gluten may develop in people who experience gastroenteritis and there is potential of at least partial recovery from this condition with elimination of lactose and gluten. Clinical recovery with a concomitant gluten and lactose [mainly milk] free diet over a period of time might be an effective strategy in treating these patients