(sproo )

1. In dentistry, the wax, metal, or plastic used to form the aperture(s) through which molten gold or resin will pass to make a casting; also, the part of the casting that later fills the sprue hole.
2. A disease of the intestinal tract characterized by malabsorption, weight loss, abdominal distention, bloating, diarrhea, and steatorrhea.

celiac s.Celiac disease.

collagenous s.Infiltration of the small intestine by collagen fibers. Clinically, the disease is similar to severe celiac sprue. It is resistant to treatment with a gluten-free diet and immunosuppressive drugs.

nontropical s.Celiac disease.

tropical s.A disease of unknown cause, endemic in Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean, and marked by diarrhea, nutrient malabsorption, anemia, fatigue, malnutrition, and edema. It is similar pathologically to celiac sprue although the involvement of the small intestine is often more extensive. Deficiencies of folate, iron, and vitamin B₁₂ are common findings. The administration of folic acid and tetracyclines for 6 to 12 months provides effective treatment. SYN: environmental enteric dysfunction; environmental enteropathy; tropical enteropathy.