Down Syndrome and Celiac Disease
What is Down Syndrome?
Down syndrome (DS) is a genetic disorder characterized by a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21 in all or some of the cells in an individual’s body and is the most common chromosomal disorder. Chromosomes usually come in pairs of two, one from each parent, and are responsible for our inherited traits. This additional chromosome, or portion of a chromosome, causes the common features of DS:
- Delayed language
- Impaired long and short-term memory
- Small head
- Small neck
- Decreased muscle tone
- Upward slant in eyelids
- Single crease in palm
- Flattened face
While some people with DS may possess all these traits, others may express very few. Although most individuals with Down syndrome have mild to moderate cognitive delays, intellectual disabilities can range from very mild to severe. In addition to physical traits and cognitive function, DS can impact other areas of the body such as the heart and gastrointestinal tract.
What Causes Down Syndrome?
There is no clear evidence explaining the additional genetic material found in DS. Older maternal age is the only factor known to increase the chance of certain types of DS, especially after the age of 35. However, approximately 80% of children with DS are born to a mother under the age of 35, suggesting a largely unexplained syndrome.
Due to advancements with antibiotics, clinical treatment, and corrective heart surgeries, adults with DS are living longer. 80% of adults with DS live until age 60, but some may live longer, which increases the need for related knowledge and awareness.
Screening for Down Syndrome
Testing for DS is typically offered in prenatal care appointments, but can only analyze your risk of having a baby with DS. However, these tests can help you make informed decisions about higher sensitivity diagnostic tests. For newborns, a baby’s appearance will often prompt healthcare providers to test for DS through a blood test that analyzes chromosomes.
Connection Between Down Syndrome and Celiac Disease
DS is closely linked with autoimmune diseases, including celiac disease (CD), but this connection is often overlooked. Many people quickly justify gastrointestinal symptoms, cognitive behavior, and other medical ailments as simply part of the syndrome. However, research suggests that 5-15% of people with DS have CD compared to the population without DS, who have about a 1% chance of developing CD. This prevalence warrants the need for routine medical screening of CD for those with DS.
CD can cause a variety of symptoms or produce no symptoms at all. Patients with DS generally present a symptomatic form of CD, but many of these symptoms overlap with those experienced by children who have DS without CD.
Down Syndrome Symptoms
- Anemia
- Intermittent diarrhea
- Constipation
Celiac Disease Symptoms
- Low weight gain
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Nutritional deficiencies
- General irritability
- Behavior changes
Although the genetic causality of the two medical conditions is clear, further studies are needed to understand the underlying mechanism. Note that genetic characteristics are necessary for the development of CD, but other factors are also involved.
Celiac Testing for Those with Down Syndrome
Writing off symptoms and late diagnosis of CD can lead to malnutrition, decreased growth, and severe complications such as lymphoma. Since CD is more common in children with DS, screening is important for management of the disease. Many in the medical field recommend CD testing for those with DS, but it is important to explicitly ask about having your child tested.
At first, children should be screened for CD through a simple blood test that detects CD antibodies. If a child tests positive for these antibodies, a small intestine endoscopy is necessary to confirm CD diagnosis. This may not be advised for very young children; discuss this with your healthcare provider.
Due to the high percentage of those with DS who have CD, The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) recommends that all children with DS between the ages of two and three undergo testing for CD. The NDSS additionally encourages doctors to screen adults with DS, especially if bowel changes, weight loss, and poor nutrition are reported. Once diagnosed with CD, treatment includes removing all wheat, barley, and rye from a person’s diet and avoiding cross-contamination with these foods as well.
Nutritional Concerns for Down Syndrome and Celiac Disease
There are no specific nutrient deficiencies identified for those with DS and CD besides those frequently seen in CD or those resulting from poor dietary choices. Refer to common nutrient deficiencies associated with CD in this educational bulletin.
How do I Support a Gluten-Free Diet For My Child With Down Syndrome?
Providing your child with a GF diet can feel intimidating and overwhelming. Focus on small changes that empower you and your child.
- Educate yourself on gluten-containing foods, gluten-free grains, and naturally delicious gluten-free foods. If possible, involve your child with this process.
- Watch for cross-contamination
- Include your child in picking out GF recipes
- Offer a variety of GF foods and let your child pick which ones they want
- Try to limit heavily processed foods and support whole food choices such as fresh fruits and vegetables
- Join a support group
- Some children and adults may require a specialized Registered Dietitian to consult based on their unique dietary needs
This article has been assessed and approved by a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist.
