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Celiac sprue

By , About.com Guide

Updated February 10, 2012

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Definition:

Celiac sprue, also known as celiac disease, is an inherited, digestive disorder in which eating foods that contain gluten sets off an autoimmune response that damages the small intestine and interferes with the body's ability to absorb certain essential nutrients.

Gluten is a protein most commonly found in wheat, barley and rye.

Celiac Disease Resources from About.com:

Also Known As: celiac disease

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