Non-celiac gluten sensitivity as a rare cause of growth retardation in children: a case series study

AIM: Herein, we present five children and adolescents with a final diagnosis of non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). BACKGROUND: Non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) is a condition characterized by gastrointestinal and extra-intestinal symptoms triggered by ingestion of gluten-containing compounds, e.g., wheat, rye, and barley, in subjects without celiac disease or wheat allergy. METHODS: Demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, serum biomarkers and skin prick test were evaluated. Patient data was also recorded after they followed a gluten-free diet (GFD). Height and weight were measured, and all patients were examined 6 months after following the suggested GFD. RESULTS: All patients had failure to thrive and abdominal pain. Clinical symptoms were reduced, and significant weight and height gains were detected after 1 month of following a gluten-free diet. CONCLUSION: The relationship between failure to thrive (FTT) and NCGS is still unknown; hence, NCGS may be one of the main causes of FTT which can be prevented by gluten-free diets.