Whipple disease

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Disease Overview

Whipple disease is an infectious bacterial disease that affects many different organ systems and interferes with the body’s ability to process (metabolize) fats.[937] The disease usually occurs in the gastrointestinal system, but may affect any part of the body including the heart, lungs, brain, joints, and eyes.[938] In the gastrointestinal system, it interferes with the body’s ability to absorb certain nutrients.[938][939] This leads to a condition known as malabsorption.[939] Whipple disease causes weight loss, incomplete breakdown of carbohydrates or fats, and problems with the immune system.[938] It is caused by infection from bacteria called Tropheryma whipplei.[938][939] When recognized and treated, Whipple disease can usually be cured. Untreated, the disease may be fatal.[938]


Synonyms

  • Intestinal lipodystrophy
  • Intestinal lipophagic granulomatosis
  • Secondary Non-tropical Sprue
  • Tropheryma whippelii infection

For more information, visit GARD.

National Organization for Rare Disorders