Malabsorption/diarrhea due to localized reaction to certain foods.
This ailment affects individuals who have never resided in tropical regions, and although it shares many similarities with sprue, it is actually the adult form of celiac disease. The underlying issue involves the disruption of small intestine function, linked to an intolerance to gluten, which hinders the absorption of fat. The primary characteristics of this condition include steatorrhea (excess fat in stools) with or without diarrhea, occasional colon dilation, muscle spasms (tetany), softening of the bones (osteomalacia), various forms of anemia, skin rashes, and frequently, delayed physical development. In most cases, this condition emerges in childhood, although it may go unnoticed until adulthood. It is more prevalent in females than males and can sometimes run in families. It is also known by several names, including adult celiac disease, Gee-Herter disease, Gee-Thaysen disease, and Herter-Heubner disease.