Tropical Sprue
Medical Questions » Illnesses » Tropical Sprue
| Name: Tropical Sprue |
| Also known as: |
| A failure to absorb fat from the gut. |
Causes of Tropical Sprue
Inflammation of the small intestine that develops in people used to a European diet who live for prolonged periods in tropical countries. |
Symptoms of Tropical Sprue
Explosive diarrhoea with watery stools, rapid weight loss, indigestion, burping, abdominal cramps, muscle cramps, and as a result of the failed fat absorption, a failure to absorb vitamins A, D, E and K, which are all soluble in fat. |
Tests for Tropical Sprue
Diagnosis is made by examination of the feces, which is found to contain high levels of fat, and by X-rays of the small intestine. Blood tests show a particular type of anemia. |
Treatment for Tropical Sprue
Tetracycline (an antibiotic) for a week, and folic acid for several months. Further treatment may be required if severe anemia has developed.
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Complications of Tropical Sprue of its treatment
None. |
Likely Outcome of Tropical Sprue
Recovery within a few weeks is usual. |
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