[Celiac disease can be associated with severe neurological symptoms. Analysis of gliadin antibodies should be considered in suspected cases]

Abstract

Celiac disease can be associated with a wide spectrum of neurological and psychiatric symptoms (cerebellar ataxia, neuromuscular manifestations, epilepsy, dementia), even in the absence of malabsorption or gastrointestinal symptoms. The case of a 72-year-old man with a rapidly progressive, lethal encephalopathy secondary to celiac disease is reported, together with a review of documented neurological symptoms in celiac disease. The aetiology of these neurological symptoms is unknown, although immunological mechanisms are suspected.