Did you know that the spleen plays a leading role in a properly functioning immune system? As the largest organ in your lymphatic system, the spleen spends its time fighting infection and keeping you healthy. Unfortunately, research points to a connection between disorders of the spleen and celiac disease. And if your immune system is already compromised because of gluten damage to your intestines, a spleen issue leaves you at heightened risk for a variety of infections and autoimmune diseases.
Today the Gluten Free RN shares her personal connection to genetic spherocytosis and how spleen damage affected her family. She also covers several studies that document the correlation between spleen issues and celiac disease. Listen in to understand how your spleen functions, the symptoms of spleen disorder, and the autoimmune diseases you may develop if your spleen is damaged or removed.
How your spleen works to keep you healthy
Conditions you may acquire if spleen is damaged (increased risk)
Instances in which spleen may be enlarged
Symptoms of spleen issues
The correlation between genetic spherocytosis and celiac disease
How the ratio of spleen diameter to RDW can indicate celiac disease
Why patients with hyposplenism should get tested for celiac disease
Other autoimmune diseases patients with hyposplenism may develop (increased risk)
Nadine's recommendations around nutrition
The link between hyposplenism and autoimmune manifestations of celiac disease
Why celiac patients may not benefit from iron supplements, infusions
"Ratio of Spleen Diameter to Red Blood Cell Distributions Width" in Medicine (Baltimore)
"Hyposplenism in Gastrointestinal Disease" in Gut BMJ
"Hyposplenism, Adult Coeliac Disease, and Autoimmunity" in Gut BMJ
"Splenic Volume Differentiates Complicated and Non-Complicated Celiac Disease" in UEG Journal
'Your Skin on Gluten' on YouTube
Melodies of the Danube Gluten-Free Cruise with Nadine
Dough Nation: A Nurse's Memoir of Celiac Disease from Missed Diagnosis to Food and Health Activism
