What is the treatment for refractory celiac disease?

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What is the treatment for refractory celiac disease?

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The treatment of refractory celiac disease is first to make sure that all gluten is eliminated from the diet. If there still is no improvement, medications are used.

* Corticosteroids such as prednisone have been used successfully in treating some patients with refractory celiac disease.

* Immuno-suppressive drugs (medications that suppress a person's immune system) such as azathioprine (Imuran, Azasan) and cyclosporine also have been used.

* Corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs are potent medications with potentially serious side effects. Many patients with refractory celiac disease are malnourished and have weakened immune systems, and corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents can further increase their risk of serious infections. Thus doctors experienced with treating celiac disease should monitor treatment of refractory celiac disease.

Unfortunately in some patients with refractory celiac disease, malabsorption and malnutrition progress despite drugs. In these patients the intravenous route is the only way to deliver nutrition. Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is a way of delivering calories, carbohydrates, amino acids, and fat in liquid solutions via a catheter that has been inserted and secured into a vein.

This answer should not be considered medical advice...This answer should not be considered medical advice and should not take the place of a doctor’s visit. Please see the bottom of the page for more information or visit our Terms and Conditions.

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