Pediatric Celiac Disease Symptoms

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that renders a person intolerant of gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. When someone with celiac disease ingests gluten, the villi (tiny protrusions) that line the small intestine become damaged. This damage interferes with the absorption of nutrients. Parents and caregivers should be aware of the pediatric symptoms of celiac disease, as it is important for a child with celiac disease to start a gluten-free diet as soon as possible.

Failure to Thrive

Children who do not gain weight at a normal rate are diagnosed with "failure to thrive." Pediatricians will closely monitor a child's growth on a chart, and if the weight falls below the 5th percentile, then there is room for concern. Children with celiac disease will sometimes have trouble gaining weight because they are not absorbing the proper amount of nutrients. Once a gluten-free diet is followed, the child should start gaining weight at a more normal rate.

Chronic Stomach Problems

Celiac disease is a condition that affects the entire digestive system. Common pediatric symptoms include stomach pain, diarrhea, bloating and decreased appetite. These symptoms will be more severe after a child eats food that is high in gluten. Chronic stomach problems, as well as any other celiac disease symptoms, should be brought to the attention of the child's pediatrician.

Delayed Puberty

By affecting the absorption of nutrients, celiac disease greatly affects a child's bone age and hormone levels. This is why puberty can become delayed in some cases. If a girl has no breast development by the age of 13, her puberty is considered delayed. Boys are considered delayed if they have no enlargement of the testicles by age 14.

Dental Enamel Defects

A dentist may be the first person to suspect a child has celiac disease, because damaged tooth enamel is common in those with this condition. Signs of enamel problems include discoloration, rough texture and deep grooves. Occasionally, a child with celiac disease will exhibit dental problems and no other symptoms.

Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D is one of the most important nutrients for a growing child, as it helps to grow strong bones. Children who have a damaged small intestine from celiac disease can easily become deficient in vitamin D. This is cause for concern, as the deficiency can lead to rickets, osteoporosis and multiple sclerosis.

Dermatitis Herpetiformis

Many children and adults with celiac disease have a related condition called dermatitis herpetiformis. This is a skin disorder that is caused by an allergy to gluten. Those who suffer from dermatitis herpetiformis will develop itchy rashes when they touch or ingest gluten.