Non-Tropical Sprue is a synonym for Celiac Disease, or Coeliac Disease as it's spelled in the UK and Autralia. It is an autoimmune disorder which results in damage being done to the small intestine. It's classical symptoms include diarrhea, bloating, gas, abdominal discomfort, weight loss, fatigue, and anemia, to name a few.

Tropical Sprue is different, thus the confusing names. Tropical Sprue is a digestive problem that occurs in the tropics and subtropics. People with tropical sprue do not absorb nutrients properly, especially vitamin B12 and folic acid.Treatment is usually 3 to 6 months of antibiotics and folic acid (also called folate) supplements. People with vitamin B12 deficiency will receive vitamin supplements as well. people can expect to feel better within about 3-6 weeks after treatment has begun. It is a fairly rare condition, affecting about 1 in 1 million people within 30 degrees of the equator. Travelors need not worry, as few infections have been seen in travelers visiting these areas for six months or less.