Descriptiion
Infection of the intestines by a parasite, of the type known as a nematode or helminth.
Cause
The parasite, strongyloides stercoralis, can survive for decades, living within the host person, without causing symptoms or problems, but when someone has a weakened immune system ( such as with HIV/Aids, or after a transplant ) it can spread and cause a disseminated and life-threatening illness.
Typically, one is infected when the larvae penetrate through the skin when in contact with infected soil, though you can also be infected if some of the larvae contaminate food. The larvae may thus directly reach the intestines, or may travel through the bloodstream to the lungs. Those in the lungs travel up the bronchi and get swallowed, thus reaching the intestines indirectly. Here they transform into parasitic female worms (curiously, parasitic male worms seem not to exist).
These females produce eggs without the need of males, and these grow into further larvae and are either passed out in the faeces, or may re-infect the host. There are two main forms of major illness associated with this infection. In hyper-infection, the life cycle is accelerated, leading to an excessive quantity of the larvae in lungs and gut. In disseminated strongyloidiasis, the larvae spread to other parts of the body not usually involved, including the central nervous system, heart, urinary tract, and other organs.
Symptoms
In the mild form, soon after infection, there may be a mild rash at the site of entry of the larvae (usually the feet) , some coughing, wheezing and mild fever as they pass through the lungs; and perhaps some abdominal discomfort or diarrhoea when they reach the gut. In the severe form, there is marked abdominal pain, with nausea and vomiting, diarrhoea which may be bloody; coughing, wheezing and discomfort in breathing; fever and chills; and if there is spread to the central nervous system, headache and confusion. In the severe forms, germs usually confined to the interior of the gut may reach the bloodstream.
Diagnosis
By identifying typical larvae in stool samples examined on consecutive days. Blood tests for antibodies can also be sensitive in identifying the presence of the larvae in someone with a normal immune system. Typical skin lesions may be seen, as the larvae migrate through the skin.
Treatment
With antihelminthic drugs, such as albendazole, or ivermectin, which are specifically effective in eliminating helminthic infections like this. Other antibiotics may be needed where the activity of the larvae have released gut-based germs into the bloodstream.
Prognosis
The infestation may be free of symptoms or problems, but in the severe disseminated form, mortality can be as high as 80%.
When to call your doctor
When typical symptoms occur.
Prevention
Avoid walking barefoot in soil especially in areas where the organism is commonly found.