Diagnosis and treatment of coeliac disease.

It is now clearly established that coeliac disease is much more common than originally considered. While in the past it was taught that coeliac disease was mainly a disease of children, it is clear now that it may be diagnosed at any age. The clinical presentation of adolescents and adults is, however, less typical. Recent evidence suggests that coeliac disease is a multi-organ disease. The diagnostic techniques involving histology and serologic testing have been improved and the involvement of environmental and genetic factors in the pathogenesis of this immune disorder has been clarified, although the pathogenesis is not yet completely understood. Complications are now better identified, and new treatment strategies are under consideration.