A Literature Review of the Renal Manifestations in Pediatric Celiac Disease and Its Associated Clinical Implications

Celiac disease (CeD) is a chronic autoimmune disorder predominantly targeting the small intestine, in which the immune system reacts to gluten. It is increasingly recognized as a systemic condition with potential renal involvement and is observed in children worldwide. There have been reports of renal manifestations in children with CeD across Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia, including immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy (IgAN), diabetic nephropathy, and urolithiasis. These conditions are frequently associated with immune complex deposition, persistent inflammation, and nutritional deficits caused by malabsorption. Despite increased recognition, research in pediatric populations remains limited, and screening and management practices are inconsistent. This study identifies renal impairment as an underrecognized extraintestinal manifestation of CeD in the pediatric population, emphasizing the protective role of an early gluten-free diet and summarizing current evidence on mechanisms and clinical presentation to guide future pediatric-focused research.