Celiac disease transmitted by allogeneic non-T cell-depleted bone marrow transplantation

Bone Marrow Transplant. 1997 Oct;20(7):607-9. doi: 10.1038/sj.bmt.1700926.

Abstract

We observed the occurrence of celiac disease following allogeneic bone marrow transplantation in a patient transplanted for acute leukemia. The marrow donor was his HLA-identical sister, who had suffered from celiac disease since birth. The post-transplant period was characterized by recurrent episodes of diarrhea. Detailed workup showed atrophic intestinal mucosa on histology and anti-gliadin and anti-endomysium antibodies in the serum, features that were not present before transplantation. GVHD was absent at that time. The patient remains free of symptoms on gluten-free diet and slight immunosuppression. This case suggests transmission of celiac disease by bone marrow transplantation and supports the T cell concept in celiac disease.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Adolescent
  • Bone Marrow Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Celiac Disease / etiology*
  • Celiac Disease / immunology
  • Humans
  • Leukemia / therapy*
  • Lymphocyte Depletion
  • Male
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • Transplantation, Homologous