Which of the following conditions is a potential differential diagnosis for unintentional weight loss?

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Unintentional weight loss is often a sign of an underlying health issue, and celiac disease is a clear example of a condition that can lead to this symptom. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder characterized by an intolerance to gluten, which can cause damage to the small intestine. This damage interferes with nutrient absorption, leading to malnutrition and weight loss as the body is unable to absorb sufficient calories and nutrients from food.

In contrast, the other conditions listed are less directly related to unintentional weight loss. Hypertension, while it can have various effects on health, does not typically cause weight loss as a primary symptom. Similarly, asthma primarily affects respiration and does not directly lead to weight loss unless it is severely affecting a person's ability to eat or engage in regular activities. Hyperlipidemia refers to elevated levels of lipids in the blood and does not inherently cause weight loss. Each of these conditions has its own associated presentations and concerns but does not align with the significant, unintentional weight loss that can be seen in celiac disease.

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