Episode 051
When Wheat Matters: Allergy, Celiac Disease, and Intolerances
Episode summary
Wheat allergy, celiac disease, and non-specific gluten intolerance all share overlapping gastrointestinal symptoms that can confound primary care diagnosis. This episode addresses the core diagnostic challenge of distinguishing IgE-mediated wheat allergy (including ω-5 gliadin–associated wheat-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis) from celiac disease and non-celiac gluten intolerance. We cover epidemiology, clinical presentations and timing of IgE reactions, component-resolved diagnostics, serologic algorithms for celiac disease, when to refer for biopsy, and management implications including gluten-free diet counseling and emergency planning for anaphylaxis. Practical takeaways emphasize improving diagnostic yield in primary care, appropriate use of specific IgE testing, and when specialist referral is necessary.
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- Lacy, Brian E. PhD, MD, FACG1; Pimentel, Mark MD, FACG2; Brenner, Darren M. MD, FACG3; Chey, William D. MD, FACG4; Keefer, Laurie A. PhD5; Long, Millie D. MDMPH, FACG (GRADE Methodologist)6; Moshiree, Baha MD, MSc, FACG7. ACG Clinical Guideline: Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. The American Journal of Gastroenterology 116(1):p 17-44, January 2021.
