Coeliac disease in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus: to screen or not, to treat or not?

Coeliac disease is more prevalent in individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus than in the normal population. It often presents in an atypical or silent form. Specific autoantibodies are found in almost all cases. Untreated coeliac disease may be associated with long-term health risks, so screening and early treatment with a gluten-free diet seem to be justified. However, extended follow-up is needed to document the clinical benefits of screening and treatment in diabetic patients.