Strongyloidiasis
Strongyloidiasis Causes
This is caused by the parasitic nematode Strongyloides stercoralis.
Strongyloidiasis Definition
Strongyloidiasis is a human parasitic disease that is caused by the nematode (roundworm) Strongyloides stercoralis. Other Strongyloides include S. f?lleborni, which infects chimpanzees and baboons and may produce a number infections in humans.
Strongyloidiasis Diagnosis
Diagnosis is done on the microscopic identification of larvae (rhabditiform and occasionally filariform) in the stool or duodenal fluid. Examination of serial samples may be needed, and not always sufficient, because direct stool examination is relatively insensitive.
Strongyloidiasis Symptoms and Signs
Strongyloidiasis is frequently asymptomatic. Gastrointestinal system symptoms include abdominal pain and diarrhea, while pulmonary symptoms (including L?ffler's syndrome) can occur during pulmonary migration of the filariform larvae. Dermatologic symptoms include urticarial rashes in the buttocks and waist areas. Blood eosinophilia is typically present.
Strongyloidiasis Treatment
The drug of choice for the treatment of strongyloidiasis is ivermectin. Ivermectin does not kill the strongyloides larvae but only the adult worms so therefore repeating dosaging may be necessary to properly eradicate the infection.
Drugs used for treatment of Strongyloidiasis
Stromectol