La Whipple disease more than 110 years after its discovery: a review and compilation of some case studies

Abstract

Whipple's disease is a chronic infection caused by the microorganism Tropheryma whippelii that mainly affects the gastrointestinal tract. The classic form of the disease, which includes weight loss, diarrhea, malabsorption, fever, however, also affects the joints, lymph nodes, heart, central nervous system, lungs and other tissues. Recent research shows a much wider variety of clinical pictures related to the infection. The diagnosis is made by intestinal biopsy and in some cases molecular biology and electron microscopy are required. The treatment includes intravenous antibiotics followed by oral treatments of at least one year. In addition, clinical reviews are required for life to control recurrences of the disease. We present some case studies published in electronic journals that document medical experiende in the follow-up of this rare disease.