Collagenous sprue, also known as collagenous colitis, is a medical condition that affects the inner lining of the colon. It is characterized by inflammation and the accumulation of collagen, a protein that provides structure to tissues and organs, beneath the epithelial cells of the colon.

Collagenous sprue is a type of microscopic colitis, which means that it can only be diagnosed through a biopsy of the colon tissue. The exact cause of collagenous sprue is not known, but it is thought to be related to an abnormal immune response or an injury to the lining of the colon.

Symptoms of collagenous sprue may include chronic watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, bloating, and nausea. In some cases, people with collagenous sprue may also experience weight loss and fatigue. The condition is more common in middle-aged women and tends to affect the distal colon, which is the part of the colon closest to the rectum.

Treatment for collagenous sprue typically involves medications to reduce inflammation and control diarrhea, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, and bulking agents. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove a portion of the colon. Collagenous sprue is generally not considered a life-threatening condition, but it can significantly impact quality of life and lead to complications such as dehydration and malnutrition if left untreated.

Tropical sprue is a malabsorption disorder that is most commonly found in tropical or subtropical regions. It is characterized by symptoms such as chronic diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue, which are caused by the impaired absorption of nutrients in the small intestine.

The exact cause of tropical sprue is not known, but it is thought to be related to an infection or other environmental factor that damages the lining of the small intestine. This damage can interfere with the absorption of nutrients, particularly fat-soluble vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, iron, and folate.

Tropical sprue is typically treated with a combination of antibiotics to eliminate any potential infectious causes, as well as a diet that is high in nutrients and low in fat. In severe cases, supplementation with fat-soluble vitamins and other nutrients may be necessary. With appropriate treatment, most people with tropical sprue are able to recover and manage their symptoms.

A gluten-free diet is a diet that excludes the consumption of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. This type of diet is often recommended for individuals with celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or wheat allergies. Adhering to a strict gluten-free diet can help manage symptoms, heal intestinal damage, and prevent further complications associated with these conditions.

The medical definition of 'Diet, Gluten-Free' includes:

1. Celiac Disease: An autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. Following a gluten-free diet is crucial for individuals with celiac disease to prevent symptoms and associated health complications.
2. Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS): A condition where individuals experience adverse reactions to gluten, but do not test positive for celiac disease or wheat allergy. A gluten-free diet can help alleviate symptoms in those with NCGS.
3. Wheat Allergy: An allergic reaction to proteins found in wheat, which may include gluten. Excluding gluten from the diet can help manage symptoms in individuals with wheat allergy.
4. Dermatitis Herpetiformis (DH): A skin manifestation of celiac disease characterized by an itchy, blistering rash. A gluten-free diet is often recommended to control DH symptoms and prevent intestinal damage.
5. Gluten Ataxia: A neurological disorder associated with celiac disease where gluten ingestion can cause issues with balance, coordination, and speech. A gluten-free diet may help improve these symptoms in individuals with gluten ataxia.

It is essential to consult a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for guidance on following a gluten-free diet to ensure proper nutrition and to avoid cross-contamination from gluten sources.

Celiac disease is a genetic autoimmune disorder in which the consumption of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, leads to damage in the small intestine. In people with celiac disease, their immune system reacts to gluten by attacking the lining of the small intestine, leading to inflammation and destruction of the villi - finger-like projections that help absorb nutrients from food.

This damage can result in various symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, fatigue, anemia, and malnutrition. Over time, if left untreated, celiac disease can lead to serious health complications, including osteoporosis, infertility, neurological disorders, and even certain types of cancer.

The only treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet, which involves avoiding all foods, beverages, and products that contain gluten. With proper management, individuals with celiac disease can lead healthy lives and prevent further intestinal damage and related health complications.

"Gluten" is not strictly defined as a medical term, but it refers to a group of proteins found in certain grains, including wheat, barley, and rye. Gluten gives these grains their elasticity and helps them maintain their shape, making it possible to bake breads and other baked goods.

From a medical perspective, gluten is significant because some people have adverse reactions to it. The two main conditions related to gluten are celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. In both cases, consuming gluten can lead to various symptoms such as gastrointestinal distress, fatigue, and skin rashes.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten causes damage to the small intestine lining, impairing nutrient absorption. On the other hand, non-celiac gluten sensitivity does not involve an immune response or intestinal damage but can still cause uncomfortable symptoms in some individuals.

It is essential to understand that a gluten-free diet should be medically recommended and supervised by healthcare professionals for those diagnosed with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, as it may lead to nutritional deficiencies if not properly managed.