Exposure to T. whipplei typically results in asymptomatic carriage but can lead to acute disease or chronic infection (Whipple's disease).

• Acute infection: Acquisition of T. whipplei can result in fever, acute gastroenteritis, and/or pneumonia.
• Chronic infection: “Classic” Whipple's disease typically begins with oligo- or polyarthralgias/seronegative arthritis. GI signs and symptoms (diarrhea, weight loss, abdominal pain) due to involvement of the duodenum and/or jejunum begin, on average, 6-8 years later. Other organ systems (e.g., the CNS and the cardiac, pulmonary, and lymphatic systems) are variably involved.