Past studies have lead researchers to believe there’s an association between lymphoma and celiac disease, and a new study discusses the role persistent villous atrophy plays in diagnosed patients having an increased risk for lymphoma.

Persistent villous atrophy, intestinal damage associated with celiac disease that is often caused by ongoing gluten exposure, remains an increased risk factor and the new study points out that even those with gradual intestinal healing are at risk. The study also emphasizes both the importance of a strict, life-long gluten-free diet to promote intestinal healing and the use of a follow-up biopsy in aiding with dietary compliance.

Benjamin Lebwohl, MD, MS, Assistant Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology at the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University, a researcher involved in the study, discusses its findings and implications for people with celiac disease in a video for MedPage Today.

Watch the video for Dr. Lebwohl’s explanation now:
Lymphoma Risk Up in Celiac Disease