Study of adherence to the gluten-free diet in coeliac patients

Introduction: The following of a strict gluten-free diet (GFD) is essential in the control of coeliac disease. The aim of this study was to determine the adherence to a GFD in coeliac patients and to evaluate the factors that could influence this adherence. Material and methods: A descriptive observational study was carried out, in which gluten immunogenic peptides (GIP) were determined in faeces using a semi-quantitative method, and the Coeliac Dietary Adherence Test was completed. Sociodemographic and clinical details were collected, and an ad hoc questionnaire was prepared. Results: Of the 80 patients included, 92.5% were adherent according to the GIP and 86.3% according to Coeliac Dietary Adherence Test (acceptable agreement; Kappa: 0.31, P=.004). The large majority (83.3%) of patients with positive GIP gave negative anti-transglutaminase antibodies in the latest determination. Current age and time of onset were significantly associated with adherence. Those with a positive GIP had a mean age of 5 years more (P=.0001) and were 52 months more on a GFD (P=.025). One quarter of those surveyed considered the diet difficult to follow. Just under two-thirds (60%) considered that the variability in the eating site was an important factor in leading to infringements, with childrens parties being the main area where they occurred (66.7%). The lack of variety (61.4%) and the increased cost (98.6%) of gluten-free foods is highlighted. Conclusions: The adherence to the GFD is generally good. The analysis of GIP helps to detect non-adherent patients that would pass unnoticed in other circumstances. Measures must be established in order to maintain good long-term adherence, taking into account the risk factors and difficulties detected. (C) 2021 Asociacion Espanola de Pediatria. Published by Elsevier Espana, S.L.U.