Coeliac Bone Loss Link Uncovered

People with coeliac disease may be more susceptible to osteoporosis because their own immune system attacks their bone tissue, a study suggests.

Osteoporosis is a known risk of coeliac disease and has been explained by a failure to absorb calcium or vitamin D.

But a study in the New England Journal of Medicine suggests coeliac patients produce antibodies which attack a key protein that maintains bone health.

They could easily be treated with drugs to prevent bone loss, researchers say.

It also explains why osteoporosis in those with the digestive disorder may not respond to calcium and vitamin D.

More information about this story follow this link http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/8295438.stm

 

8 October 2009