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[Tropical sprue: two cases in the Paris area]
Gilles Macaigne1, Jean-François Boivin, Marie-Luce Auriault
1Service d'hépato-gastroentérologie, Hôpital de Lagny-Marne-la-Vallée, 77405 Lagny-sur-Marne Cedex. gmacaigne@ch-lagny77.fr
Gastroenterologie Clinique Et Biologique
|November 4, 2004
Summary
Tropical sprue (TS) is a tropical malabsorption syndrome. This study reports two cases in Paris, successfully treated with antibiotics, confirming TS diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pathology
Background:
- Tropical sprue (TS) is a malabsorption disorder prevalent in tropical regions.
- It involves persistent small intestine bacterial colonization leading to enterocyte damage.
- Diagnosis is often challenging, especially outside endemic areas.
Observation:
- Two cases of TS are presented in individuals residing in Paris who had returned from endemic areas.
- A 76-year-old woman presented with anorexia, significant weight loss, and anemia.
- A 53-year-old man experienced chronic diarrhea and substantial weight loss over four years.
Findings:
- Both patients exhibited duodenal lesions characterized by subtotal and total villous atrophy.
- Histopathology revealed significant lymphocytic infiltration of the surface epithelium and lamina propria.
- Response to antibiotic therapy confirmed the diagnosis of tropical sprue.
Implications:
- This report highlights that tropical sprue can occur in non-endemic regions like Paris.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic treatment are crucial for patient recovery.
- Further research may elucidate the specific triggers and long-term management of TS in returning travelers.