Silent celiac disease among 21 patients with cryptogenic epilepsy

Background: Celiac disease (CD) is predominant in women and young people. Atypical, non-enteric symptoms are more common among adults. There is also an association between CD and neurological disorders, especially with cerebellar ataxia, polyneuropathy and epilepsy. Aim: To study the frequency of CD in a group of adults with cryptogenic epilepsy. Material and Methods: Twenty one patients with cryptogenic epilepsy, aged 20 to 65 years (14 women) were studied, measuring IgA-anti transglutaminase antibodies and deamidated gliadin peptide (DGP) IgG and IgA antibodies. Results: One patient had elevated titers of both types of antibodies. Small bowel biopsy showed villous atrophy and lymphocytic infiltration compatible with CD. Conclusions: One of 21 adult patients with cryptogenic epilepsy had a silent CD. (Rev Med Chile 2011; 139: 587-591).