Article presents current concepts on pathogenesis and treatment of adult celiac disease. The disease is characterised by malabsortion caused by damage of the muscosa due to gluten-containing diet. Until recently, celiac sprue in adults was considered uncommon. In adults the disease can have an atypical course. It is diagnosed by serologic tests as well as biopsy of small intestine. The treatment is lifetime gluten-free diet. In refractory sprue corticosteroids and other immunosuppressants are considerable.

celiac disease, sprue, diagnosis, treatment.