Dilated cardiomyopathy as the first presentation of coeliac disease: association or causation?

Abstract

Global ventricular impairment is a frequent presentation in clinical practice, but dissection of causative mechanisms from clinical associations is challenging. We present the case of a 19-year-old man who presented with dilated cardiomyopathy as the first presentation of coeliac disease. The manifestation of iron deficiency anaemia prompted gastroenterology input and enabled accurate diagnosis. It is unclear whether coeliac disease was simply coexistent or directly implicated in pathophysiology. Mechanisms may relate to nutritional deficiencies or autoimmune myocarditis arising from cross-reactivity. We advocate early multidisciplinary involvement in such contexts to aid with management strategy. Despite adherence to a gluten-free diet, ventricular dysfunction persisted and he has been referred to a cardiac transplant centre.

Keywords: Coeliac disease; cardiomyopathy; heart failure; micronutrient deficiency.

Fig 1.

Four chamber (a) and parasternal short axis (b) views on cardiac MRI confirming dilated left ventricle, severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction (EF 23%) and extensive fibrotic deposition.