When Thompson was 5 years of age, he began to complain that his stomach hurt, especially after eating meals and snacks. He also experienced chronic diarrhea. His parents noticed that he could eat poultry, meat, dairy foods, fruits, and vegetables without developing any intestinal problems, but he would get a "tummy ache" soon after eating sandwiches, cookies, crackers, or pancakes. Based on this information, Thompson's parents should have him evaluated for .
A. cystic fibrosis
B. irritable bowel syndrome
C. colon cancer
D. celiac disease

ANSWER: (D) CELIAC DISEASE

EXPLANATION: CELIAC DISEASE refers to an immune reaction to consumption of food that contains gluten. Gluten is a protein that is found in wheat, barley and rye.

However, after consumption of gluten, the immune reaction to this problem elicits inflammation that can damage the epithelial lining of the small intestine, severe stomach aches, diarrhea and other medical complications.

Thus, Thompson is suspected of having celiac disease due to his bodily reactions after consuming sandwiches, cookies, crackers, and pancakes, which are produced using wheat, barley, or rye (which have the presence of gluten).