Stiff Person Syndrome and Gluten Sensitivity

Stiff person syndrome (SPS) is a rare autoimmune disease characterised by axial stiffness and episodic painful spasms. It associated with additional diseases cerebellar ataxia. Most patients SPS have high levels of glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) antibodies. The aetiology remains unclear but autoimmunity thought to play major part. We previously demonstrated overlap between anti-GAD ataxia gluten sensitivity. also the beneficial effect gluten-free diet (GFD) in Here, we describe our experience management 20 SPS. mean age at symptom onset was 52 years. Additional were seen 15/20. Nineteen had serological evidence sensitivity 6 coeliac disease. Fourteen 15 who brain imaging involvement. Twelve improved on GFD seven alone only treatment required long term. immunosuppression three remained such medication. Gluten plays an important part pathogenesis effective therapeutic intervention.