Strongyloides stercoralis infections in patients  attending a tertiary care Hospital: Series of  seven cases

Dr. Kalawat U; Dr. Abhijit C; Dr. Jaya P

Volume : II, Issue : II, February - 2013

Strongyloides stercoralis infections in patients attending a tertiary care Hospital: Series of seven cases

Dr. Kalawat U, Dr. Abhijit C , Dr. Jaya P

Abstract :

Strongyloides stercoralis infection is widely prevalent all around the world. Risk factors for strongyloides infection include HIV, malignancy, immunosuppressive therapy, diabetes and malnutrition .Infection can result in asymptomatic chronic disease of the gut, which can remain undetected for decade but in immunocompromised patients specially those receiving long-term corticosteroid therapy, hyperinfection can occur, resulting in high mortality rates (up to 87%). One year data was analysed to study the Strongyloides stercoralis infections, clinical presentations, treatment and the outcome in patients attending a tertiary care hospital. Strongyloides stercoralis was diagnosed in 7 patients. Three of these patients were on corticosteroid therapy and two were malnourished, others apparently did not have any high risk factor for the infection. All were HIV negative. Corticosteroid therapy is an important risk factor for Strongyloides stercoralis infection. Strongyloides Co infection with other helminths can occur so it should always be kept in mind. Hyperinfection with Strongyloides stercoralis results in high mortality despite of treatment.