Primary biliary cirrhosis and coeliac disease: an association?

Lancet. 1978 Feb 4;1(8058):230-3. doi: 10.1016/s0140-6736(78)90480-4.

Abstract

The association of primary biliary cirrhosis and coeliac disease, not previously reported, was observed in 4 patients. In each case, the two conditions were diagnosed simultaneously, and although symptoms were due to coeliac disease, initial investigation drew attention to the liver condition. All the patients responded to a gluten-free diet and remain well 2 years later. Primary biliary cirrhosis remains asymptomatic in 3 patients, but pruritus has developed in the 4th. The significance of this association is unclear and may merit formal study. Coeliac disease should be considered as a possible cause of unexplained weight loss in primary biliary cirrhosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Bile Ducts, Intrahepatic / pathology
  • Celiac Disease / complications*
  • Celiac Disease / diagnosis
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Jejunum / pathology
  • Liver / blood supply
  • Liver / pathology
  • Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary / complications*
  • Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary / diagnosis
  • Liver Function Tests
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Portal System / pathology