Liver abnormalities in celiac disease

Abstract

Celiac disease is an intolerance of the small bowel to gluten. Although most symptomatic patients have symptoms related to the gastrointestinal tract, many extra-intestinal manifestations have been described. A wide spectrum of hepatobiliary diseases have been described, including asymptomatic elevations of liver enzyme levels, nonspecific hepatitis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and autoimmune and cholestatic liver disease. In addition, celiac disease may be the underlying cause of unexplained elevations of liver enzyme levels. Because most patients do not have overt gastrointestinal symptoms, a high index of suspicion is required. Moreover, in the majority of patients, liver enzyme levels will normalize on a gluten-free diet. We review the literature pertaining to hepatic abnormalities that may be seen in association with celiac disease. We also suggest an approach to the investigation and management of these patients.