A perspective on tropical sprue.
A diagnosis of tropical sprue, an infrequent affliction of inhabitants and travelers in tropical regions, should be considered in patients with a compatible history, malabsorption, and chronic diarrhea. It can occur in either endemic or epidemic form and can be preceded by acute gastroenteritis. The cause of tropical sprue is still unknown, although most data support an infectious etiology. Therapeutic experience is greatest with folic acid and tetracycline. Most patients can be expected to recover with proper nutritional support, although relapses and slow responses occur.
Lim
M L
ML
Infectious Diseases Division, Naval Medical Center, San Diego, 34800 Bob Wilson Drive, San Diego, CA 92134-1005, USA. mllim@nmcsd.med.navy
D005492:Folic Acid / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D013182:Sprue, Tropical / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy
D005492:Folic Acid