Which of the following is a potential complication of untreated celiac disease in children?

• A. Short Stature
• B. Migraines
• C. Reduced Bone Mineral Density
• D. Iron Deficiency Anemia

Answer: (C)

Untreated celiac disease damages the lining of the proximal small intestine, reducing the absorption of nutrients essential for bone health, especially calcium and vitamin D. When these minerals aren’t absorbed well, bones don’t mineralize properly, leading to reduced bone mineral density. In children, this can impair normal bone accrual during growth and increase fracture risk later on. While growth problems and iron deficiency anemia can also occur due to malabsorption, the impact on bone mineral density is a key, specific consequence of the intestinal damage in untreated disease.