Does Celiac Cause Acro-Osteolysis: A Case Report Study

Acro-osteolysis is characterized by resorption of distal phalanges of fingers and toes. Plain radiography is the best imaging technique for the detection of acro-osteolysis.

Our report describes a 38-year- old man with a history of rheumatoid arthritis and celiac disease, who presented with shortness of distal phalanges. Roentgenograms disclosed terminal phalangeal resorption in the fingers.

All work-ups were normal from tests and surveys for secondary causes. According to longstanding and poor-controlled celiac disease, after excluding secondary causes, we presume that celiac disease is the leading cause of acro-osteolysis in this patient.