Abstract
Background: Celiac disease, an immune-mediated inflammation of the small intestine, occurs in genetically predisposed individuals, and is caused by sensitivity to dietary gluten and related proteins. The global prevalence is approximately 1%. Celiac disease is frequently associated with extra-intestinal manifestations, including iron deficiency anemia, dermatologic eruptions, diabetes mellitus, thyroid disease, and connective tissue disorders, but is rarely associated with cardiomyopathy. Case presentation: Our case describes a 33 year old women, who presented with exertional dyspnea and fatigue, and found to have severe iron deficiency anemia and dilated cardiomyopathy, secondary to celiac disease. Conclusion: High clinical suspicion is needed to identify celiac disease in patients diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, as an improvement in cardiac function has been reported with strict adherence to a gluten free diet.