Complications

People with coeliac disease, in particular those who are undiagnosed or do not adhere to a strict gluten-free diet are prone to develop complications, such as osteoporosis, lymphoma and fertility problems. 

Malignant complications can be considered the most serious, but once a patient has adhered to the gluten-free diet for 3-5 years the risk is reduced back to that of the general population.

The risk of osteoporosis is increased in those who are diagnosed late in life due to chronic malabsorption of calcium. Effective management is therefore essential to avoid complications of osteoporosis such as fracture.

The risk of infertility and adverse events of pregnancy are increased in undiagnosed coeliac disease, but again the risks are reduced following diagnosis and adherence to the gluten-free diet.