Persistent Mucosal Damage and Risk of Fracture in Celiac Disease

By: Peter Olins, PhD on February 6, 2014.

Poor absorption of calcium from the diet is common among celiac patients. It seems likely that patients who do not heal fully might have greater problems in maintaining bone mass. This research study of about 3000 Swedish celiacs with persistent damage to their small intestine investigated the effect on the rate of bone fractures, compared to about 4000 patients whose small intestine had healed. Surprisingly, there was no increased incidence of fracture in the spine, arm or leg bones, but a 67% increase was seen for hip fractures. The authors speculate that this would be more likely be due to a loss of balance in these patients, rather than a direct effect of calcium content of the bones.

Journal Abstract: B Lebwohl, et al.

Published in: J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2014 Jan 16:jc20133164.

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