Whipple's disease

A typical case of Whipple's disease is reported, substantiated by histopathologic study. Treatment with steroids has been used with good results. A prolonged clinical remission has occurred, although persistance of pathologic changes in the small intestine has been demonstrated. This disease is a generalized one with polyserositis and malabsorption, the etiology of which is unknown. A genetic factor has been suggested, with the presence of a basic defect in intestinal cell absorption. That it may represent a general sensitivity reaction with inflammation, is possible. It may be amenable to steroid therapy.