Overview
Tropical sprue is a condition in which the small intestine absorbs nutrients poorly. It affects people living in or visiting tropical regions for long periods.
When to get urgent help
Seek help for severe dehydration.
Causes and risk factors
Thought to follow an intestinal infection that changes the gut bacteria; it occurs in parts of Asia, the Caribbean and Central America.
How it develops (pathophysiology)
Bacterial overgrowth and inflammation damage the lining of the small intestine and flatten its villi. Absorption of folate, vitamin B12, fats and other nutrients falls.
Signs and symptoms
Long-lasting diarrhoea, often fatty, weight loss, bloating, tiredness and a sore tongue from vitamin deficiency.
How it is diagnosed
Blood tests for anaemia and vitamins, stool tests and a small bowel biopsy.
Possible complications
Anaemia and malnutrition.
Medicines
Tetracycline antibiotics for several months, with folic acid and vitamin B12.
Other treatments
A nutritious diet and correcting deficiencies.
Living with it and prevention
Safe food and water in the tropics.
Outlook
Good with treatment.
