What is Tropical sprue?

 

     Tropical sprue





Tropical sprue is a rare chronic malabsorptive disorder due to an unknown cause. It is seen prevalent among people traveling to the tropical regions or in the native population.

It is characterized by :
1. Persistent diarrhea,
2. Weight loss
3. Chronic fatigue
4. Abdominal discomfort or pain

Consequently, nutritional deficiencies and abnormalities in the mucous lining of the small intestine may be present. The exact cause of this disorder is yet to found out however, it may be related to a complex medley of environmental and nutritional factors of the region.

Due to the inflammation of the small bowel, it leads to poor absorption of many vitamins and minerals like: –

  • Folate and Vit B12 deficiency
  • Vit D and calcium
  • Vit C

If the condition is left undiagnosed or untreated, the ensuing malnutrition leads to infections, anorexia, osteoporosis etc

Management

Tropical sprue is a diagnosis made after excluding infective and other inflammatory etiologies affecting the bowel. Certain tests help in approaching this diagnosis

  • Complete blood counts
  • Vit B12 and folate levels
  • Homocysteine and methylmalonic acid levels
  • Upper GI endoscopy
  • Colonoscopy with biopsy




Treatment

  • Antibiotics like tetracycline
  • Vitamin supplementation





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