Assessment of the Potential Impact of Some Micronutrient Deficiencies on Celiac Disease Severity

Abstract

     This study explored the levels of vitamin B12, D3, calcium, zinc, and ferritin in patients with celiac disease (CD) and their clinical relevance. Fifty CD patients (25 males and 25 females: aged 15 to 47) from Baghdad Teaching Hospital and 20 healthy controls were enrolled. Detection of antibodies was performed using ELISA, while micronutrient levels were quantified through photoelectrochemistry and photolysis. CD patients revealed significantly higher levels of anti-gliadin and anti-tissue antibodies (p < 0.001) compared to controls. In contrast, significantly reduced levels of vitamin D3, vitamin B12, zinc, calcium, and ferritin were observed (p < 0.001). Age-stratified analysis showed that patients aged 15–25 years exhibited reduced levels of ferritin, calcium, and vitamin B12, whereas individuals aged 26–35 years demonstrated the most pronounced deficiency in vitamin D3. These deficiencies correlated negatively with anti-tissue IgA, suggesting a potential contribution to disease severity. The findings propose that micronutrient deficiencies are prevalent in CD and may affect its pathogenesis, emphasizing the importance of initial nutritional assessment and management in individuals affected by the condition.