Author/Authors :
Bonamico, Margherita Department of Pediatrics Sapienza University - Rome, Italy , Mennini, Maurizio Department of Pediatrics Sapienza University - Rome, Italy , Petrarca, Laura Department of Pediatrics Sapienza University - Rome, Italy , Nenna, Raffaella Department of Pediatrics Sapienza University - Rome, Italy
Abstract :
We read with interest the article by Leonardi and La Rosa
(2010) that deals with the hypothesis that nonintestinal inflammatory
diseases, such as hepatitis B virus (HBV), may trigger immunologic
gluten intolerance in susceptible people (1). A recent
study indicated that a high frequency of rotavirus infections
may increase the risk of celiac disease (CD) autoimmunity in
genetically predisposed individuals (2). Although we recognize
the relevance of this controversial field of study, we cannot accept
that a sample size of 60 patients is sufficient to explain this
epidemiological link. We would like to offer some interesting
considerations regarding the transmission of HBV in Italy.
