Dilated cardiomyopathy associated with celiac disease: A case report

Abstract

Background: Celiac disease, an immune-mediated inflammation of the small intestine, occurs in genetically predisposed individuals, and is caused by sensitivity to dietary gluten and related proteins. The global prevalence is approximately 1%. Celiac disease is frequently associated with extra-intestinal manifestations, including iron deficiency anemia, dermatologic eruptions, type 1 diabetes mellitus, thyroid disease, and connective tissue disorders, but is rarely associated with cardiomyopathy.

Case presentation: Our case describes a 33-year-old woman, who presented with exertional dyspnea and fatigue, and was diagnosed with severe iron deficiency anemia and dilated cardiomyopathy, secondary to celiac disease.

Conclusion: High clinical suspicion is needed to identify celiac disease in patients diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, as an improvement in cardiac function has been reported with strict adherence to a gluten-free diet.

Keywords: case report; celiac disease; dilated cardiomyopathy; gluten‐free diet; hypothyroidism; iron deficiency anemia.