Burning Tongue as Initial Presentation of Celiac Disease in an Elderly Woman: A Case Report

S D Med. 2016 Jun;69(6):253-5.

Abstract

There are few reports in the literature where celiac disease presents with tongue manifestations, although atypical presentations of celiac disease are not uncommon. This case report highlights an atypical presentation of celiac disease in an elderly female. Our patient presented to clinic with complaints of a burning tongue for the past two years as well as occasional loose stools and fatigue. Work-up revealed iron deficiency anemia, zinc deficiency and an abnormal celiac panel. Complete symptom improvement was noted by 10 weeks into the initiation of a gluten free diet. Celiac disease can present at any age and should be considered as a differential in findings of malabsorption and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Anemia, Iron-Deficiency* / diagnosis
  • Anemia, Iron-Deficiency* / etiology
  • Burning Mouth Syndrome* / diagnosis
  • Burning Mouth Syndrome* / etiology
  • Celiac Disease* / blood
  • Celiac Disease* / complications
  • Celiac Disease* / diagnosis
  • Celiac Disease* / diet therapy
  • Celiac Disease* / physiopathology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Diet, Gluten-Free / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Tongue Diseases* / diagnosis
  • Tongue Diseases* / etiology
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Zinc / deficiency*

Substances

  • Zinc