What Is Strongyloidiasis?
Strongyloidiasis is a parasitic infection caused by the roundworm Strongyloides stercoralis. It primarily affects the intestines but can also spread to other parts of the body. The infection is common in tropical and subtropical regions with poor sanitation.
What Are the Symptoms of Strongyloidiasis?
Symptoms vary widely and can range from mild to severe:
- Itchy rash, often on the buttocks or thighs (larva currens)
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Weight loss and fatigue
- Cough and wheezing if the lungs are involved
- In severe cases, widespread infection causing organ damage (hyperinfection syndrome)
What Causes Strongyloidiasis?
Strongyloidiasis is caused by infection with Strongyloides stercoralis, which enters the body through:
- Skin contact with contaminated soil containing larvae
- Walking barefoot on infected soil is a common way of transmission
- The parasite can multiply inside the host, leading to persistent infection
How Is Strongyloidiasis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves:
- Stool examination for larvae (may require multiple samples)
- Blood tests detecting antibodies against the parasite
- In some cases, biopsy of affected tissue
- Serological tests for chronic or disseminated infection
How Is Strongyloidiasis Treated?
Treatment includes antiparasitic medications such as:
- Ivermectin (first-line treatment)
- Albendazole as an alternative or additional therapy
- In severe cases, hospitalization and supportive care may be required
Complications of Strongyloidiasis
If untreated, especially in immunocompromised individuals, strongyloidiasis can lead to:
- Hyperinfection syndrome, causing widespread dissemination of larvae
- Severe respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms
- Secondary bacterial infections
- Potentially fatal outcomes without prompt treatment
How to Prevent Strongyloidiasis
Prevention strategies include:
- Avoiding contact with contaminated soil, especially barefoot walking
- Improving sanitation and hygiene practices
- Wearing shoes and protective clothing in endemic areas
- Screening and treating at-risk populations, especially before immunosuppressive therapy
Living with Strongyloidiasis
With proper diagnosis and treatment, strongyloidiasis is curable. Early detection is important to prevent complications, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.