Celiac Crisis with Severe Hypokalemia and Paraplegia as a First Presentation of Celiac Disease in a Child

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder, affecting the small intestine primarily, leading to severe villous loss. A celiac crisis is a rare complication of celiac disease, typically affecting children below two years of age, characterized by explosive watery diarrhea, impressive abdominal distension, dehydration, hypotension and lethargy. This severe picture is accompanied by profound electrolyte abnormalities including dangerously low potassium levels and severe acidosis. The awareness of the condition could lead to prompt diagnosis and prevent significant morbidity.