What is the most appropriate treatment for a patient diagnosed with celiac disease?

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The most appropriate treatment for a patient diagnosed with celiac disease is a gluten-free diet. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder characterized by an adverse reaction to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Ingestion of gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine's lining, leading to malabsorption of nutrients and a variety of gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms.

By adhering to a strictly gluten-free diet, patients can effectively manage their symptoms and promote healing of the intestinal mucosa. This dietary change helps to prevent long-term complications associated with the disease, such as intestinal lymphoma and autoimmune disorders.

In contrast to this, small bowel resection is not a first-line treatment for celiac disease. It may be considered in specific cases with complications, such as refractory celiac disease, but it is not a general treatment option. Ciprofloxacin, an antibiotic, is not indicated for celiac disease as it does not address the underlying cause of the condition. Similarly, pancreatic enzyme therapy is primarily used for conditions that involve pancreatic insufficiency and does not target the fundamental issue in celiac disease. Therefore, the gluten-free diet is the cornerstone of treatment in managing celiac disease effectively.

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