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Whipple's
disease is a malabsorption disease. It interferes with the
body's ability to absorb certain nutrients. The disease causes
weight loss, irregular breakdown of carbohydrates and fats,
resistance to insulin, and malfunctions of the immune system. When
recognized and treated, Whipple's disease can be cured. Untreated,
the disease is usually fatal.
Whipple's disease is caused by bacteria. It can
affect any system of the body, but occurs most often in the small
intestine. The disease causes lesions on the wall of the small
intestine and thickening of the tissue. The villi--tiny,
finger-like protrusions from the wall that help absorb
nutrients--are destroyed.
Symptoms include diarrhea, intestinal bleeding,
abdominal bloating and cramps, loss of appetite, weight loss,
fatigue, and weakness. Arthritis and fever often occur several
years before intestinal symptoms develop. Diagnosis is based on
symptoms and results of a biopsy of tissue from the small
intestine.
Whipple's disease is treated with antibiotics to
destroy the bacteria that cause the disease. The physician may use
a number of different types, doses, and schedules of antibiotics
to find the best treatment. Depending on the seriousness of the
disease, treatment may also include fluid and electrolyte
replacement. Electrolytes are salts and other substances in body
fluid that the heart and brain need to function properly. Extra
iron, folate, vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium may also be given
to help compensate for the vitamins and minerals the body is not
absorbing on its own.
Symptoms usually disappear after 1 to 3 months
of treatment. Because relapse is common even after successful
treatment, the health care team may continue to observe patients
for some time.
More information is available from
National Organization for Rare Disorders Inc.
P.O. Box 8923
New Fairfield, CT 06812-8923
Tel: (800) 999-6673 or (203) 746-6518
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