| Abstract: | Objectives:To assess knowledge of celiac disease among medical professionals (physicians).Methods:We conducted a cross-sectional survey of hospital-based medical staff in primary, secondary, and tertiary care public, and private hospitals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (KSA). We carried out the study between January 2013 and January 2104 at King Khalid University Hospital, King Saud University, Riyadh, KSA. A pretested questionnaire was distributed to the potential participants. A scoring system was used to classify the level of knowledge of participants into 3 categories: poor, fair, and good.Results:A total of 109 physicians completed the survey and of these participants, 86.3% were from public hospitals, and 13.7% from private hospitals; 58.7% were males. Of the physicians, 19.2% had poor knowledge. Interns and residents had fair to good knowledge, but registrars, specialists, and even the consultants were less knowledgeable of celiac disease.Conclusion:Knowledge of celiac disease is poor among a significant number of physicians including consultants, which can potentially lead to delays in diagnosis. Educational programs need to be developed to improve awareness of celiac disease in the health care profession.Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disorder that is triggered by ingestion of gluten in genetically susceptible individuals. This leads to small intestinal villous atrophy and its ensuing complications. Celiac disease is a common disorder, and the prevalence seems to be on the rise. The exact prevalence of CD in the Middle East and Saudi Arabia (KSA) is not known, but it affects approximately 0.5-1% of the general population in the West.1 The classical presentation of CD is in early childhood with a mal-absorptive picture leading to diarrhea and failure to thrive. However, many cases now present in adulthood. It can also have a variety of non-intestinal presentations such as anemia, fatigue, bone disease, liver enzyme elevation, and infertility.1,2 Highly sensitive screening tests such as immunoglobulin (Ig)A-tissue transglutaminase antibody are now available to screen for CD. The diagnosis of CD is confirmed with small intestinal biopsies, and treatment consists of a strict gluten-free diet for life.3 Health care professionals need to be aware of both the classical and non-classical (extra-intestinal) manifestations of CD in order to make a timely diagnosis. Delays in diagnosis can lead to potentially serious complications such as osteoporosis and small intestinal lymphoma.4 The purpose of the study was to assess the knowledge of CD among the medical professionals. The information obtained will help to design and conduct educational and training programs on CD. |
