The exact cause of this disorder is not known, however it may be related to environmental and nutritional conditions in the tropical regions where it is most prevalent. Tropical Sprue may be related to an infectious organism (either viral or bacterial), dietary toxin, parasitic infestation or a nutritional deficiency such as folic acid. Tropical Sprue causes damage to the mucosal lining of the intestine resulting in impaired absorption of food, minerals and water.
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