Is There A Connection Between Celiac Disease and Crohn's Disease?

People have asked the question: Is there a connection between Celiac Disease and Crohn's Disease? Researchers have suggested that there is a connection. There are four genetic variations between Celiac Disease, and Crohn's. Those of us with Celiac Disease are at a higher risk for Crohn's Disease than the general population.

The four genes connecting the two diseases are as follows:

• IL18RAP
• PTPN2
• TAGAP (this specific gene has been identified as a risk factor for Celiac Disease, but is now associated with Crohn's Disease as well.
• PUS10 (this gene has previously been tied to Celiac Disease, Crohn's Disease, and also, Ulcerative Colitis.

Each one of these genes influence the responses of the Immune System when it comes to perceived threats entering the system.
Research shows that if you have one of these diseases, you are likely to have the other. Researchers have only begun to scratch the surface in terms of researching the correlation between the two.

One year after I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease, I had a biopsy. Even after being gluten free for a year, I still showed damage on my intestine. Another thing that my biopsy found, was, Ulcerative Colitis. After the biopsy, I was tested for Crohn's Disease. My Gastroenterologist theorized that the Colitis might be a precursor to Crohn's Disease. My test results came back inconclusive. I plan on being tested again.

Fellow Celiacs, it is important to be tested for both Colitis, and Crohn's. Just like Celiac Disease, both Colitis, and Crohn's are serious illnesses. It is better to be safe than sorry.

Source: www.celiac.com/articles/22440/1/Study-Shows-Celiac-Crohns-Disease-Share-Genetic-Links/Page1.html

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