Prevalence of Celiac Disease among First-Degree Relatives of Patients with Celiac Disease in Mazandaran Province, Iran

Background and purpose: Celiac disease is a gluten-dependent autoimmune disorder that develops in genetically susceptible individuals and causes damage to the small intestinal villi, leading to nutrient malabsorption. The disease may present with gastrointestinal and extraintestinal manifestations or remain asymptomatic, particularly among first-degree relatives of affected patients.

Materials and methods

This cross-sectional study investigated the prevalence of celiac disease among first-degree relatives of patients with celiac disease in Mazandaran Province, Iran. Among 187 registered patients, 116 first-degree relatives participated in the screening program. The mean age of participants was 42 years, and 80% were female. Serum anti-tissue transglutaminase immunoglobulin A (tTG-IgA) levels were measured as part of the screening process. Individuals with positive or borderline results underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and duodenal biopsy. Duodenal biopsy specimens were evaluated according to the Marsh classification.