sprue /spro̅o̅/ [D, sprouw, kind of tumor] , a chronic degenerative disorder resulting from malabsorption of nutrients from the small intestine and characterized by a broad range of symptoms, including diarrhea; weakness; weight loss; poor appetite; pallor; muscle cramps; bone pain; ulceration of the mucous membrane lining the digestive tract; and a smooth, shiny tongue. It occurs in both tropical and nontropical forms and affects both children and adults. Also called catarrhal dysentery. See also celiac disease, malabsorption syndrome, nontropical sprue, tropical sprue.
