Tropical sprue

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Digestive system

Digestive system organs

Treatment begins with rehydration with fluids and electrolytes. Replacement of folate, iron, vitamin B12, and other nutrients may also be needed. Antibiotic therapy with tetracycline is given at the beginning of treatment.

Oral tetracycline is usually not prescribed for children until after all permanent teeth have erupted. It can permanently discolor teeth that are still forming.

The outcome is expected to be good with treatment.

Vitamin and mineral deficiencies are common complications.

Call your provider if you experience prolonged diarrhea or other symptoms of this disorder, especially after spending time in the tropics.

Call your provider if tropical sprue symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment, or if new symptoms develop.

Review Date: 05/04/2006
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.