Tropical Sprue

Malabsorption syndrome (MAS) of unknown/infectious etiology occurring primarily in patients in the tropics and subtropics: diagnosis likely if (1):

• Typical clinical presentation

• Defici...

Fatigue

Asthenia

Weight loss

Diarrhea (usually chronic)

Abdominal cramps

Borborygmi

Night blindness (vitamin A deficiency)

Anorexia

Steatorrhea

Paresthesias

Ecchymoses (vitamin K deficiency)

Correct nutritional deficiencies (e.g., vitamin B₁₂, folic acid).

Control diarrhea.

Replace fluids, electrolytes; transfuse as necessary.

Relapsing symptoms and malnutrition pos...

Lo A, Guelrud M, Essenfeld H, et al. Classification of villous atrophy with enhanced magnification endoscopy in patients with celiac disease and tropical sprue. Gastrointest Endosc....

Celiac Disease; Diarrhea, Chronic

Algorithm: Diarrhea, Chronic

Tropical sprue is endemic in certain areas.

Unless treated, symptoms persist or recur.

Gluten-free diet does not alter symptoms of tropical sprue.