Whipple's disease is caused by bacteria named Tropheryma whipplei. It can affect any system of the body, but occurs most often in the small intestine. Lesions appear on the wall of the small intestine and thicken the tissue. The villi —tiny, finger-like protrusions from the wall that help absorb nutrients —are damaged.
What causes Whipple's disease?
{{ORGANIZATION}}'s disease is caused by bacteria named {{NAME}} whipplei. It can affect any system of the body, but occurs most often in the small intestine. Lesions appear on the wall of the small intestine and thicken the tissue. The villi —tiny, finger-like protrusions from the wall that help absorb nutrients —are damaged.