It is not generally realized that celiac disease occurs at all ages, although Gee, who first described it, called attention to this fact. It usually occurs before the fifth year, beginning most frequently in the latter half of the first year. The onset is usually so gradual that the date is difficult to set; occasionally it is abrupt. The course is chronic, and there is a marked tendency to relapse. The symptoms are usually characteristic. There is a marked hypotonia. The face is edematous, distressed, pale and emaciated, but is less emaciated than the extremities, which the patient may be unable or disinclined to move. There is great irritability, and usually complete anorexia. The abdomen is very large, protuberant and soft, except when distended by gas. The stools are frequent, large, pale and foul-smelling, rarely watery, and appear to be greater in bulk than can be accounted for by the intake. There is a marked retardation in growth.