What is the most urgent complication associated with celiac disease in infants?

The most urgent complication associated with celiac disease in infants is intussusception or volvulus. This is particularly significant because these conditions involve a portion of the intestine folding into itself (intussusception) or twisting (volvulus), which can lead to a blockage of the intestinal passage. In infants, this can result in a medical emergency, potentially causing ischemia or necrosis of the affected segment of the intestine.

While growth retardation, vitamin deficiencies, and esophageal reflux are important concerns related to celiac disease, they are generally more chronic and can be managed over time. Growth retardation is a common manifestation of malabsorption due to celiac disease, but it is not typically an immediate and life-threatening emergency. Vitamin deficiencies arise from the malabsorption of nutrients over time and can lead to long-term complications if not addressed, but they do not present the same immediate risk of acute intestinal complications. Esophageal reflux can occur in infants for various reasons, including structural issues or other gastrointestinal conditions, but it is not typically associated specifically with celiac disease or considered an urgent complication.

Therefore, the urgency associated with intussusception or volvulus makes it the most critical complication that requires immediate intervention in infants diagnosed with celiac