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Hookworm infestation in a 3-month old female
B E Otaigbe1, A U Eneh, B Oruamabo
1Department of Paediatrics, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Summary
Hookworm infestation can cause severe anemia in infants. Early diagnosis and treatment with albendazole are crucial for recovery, especially in high-risk tropical communities.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Tropical Medicine
Background:
- Intestinal helminthiasis is a significant cause of illness and death in children globally, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.
- This case report focuses on the potential for hookworm infection in infants.
Observation:
- A three-month-old infant presented with failure to thrive and severe anemia.
- Symptoms included dark watery stools, fever, and excessive crying, requiring blood transfusions.
Findings:
- Stool microscopy confirmed numerous hookworm ova.
- Treatment with albendazole led to rapid improvement, with normal stools and weight gain within three days.
Implications:
- Hookworm infestation should be considered in infants presenting with severe anemia in endemic areas.
- This case highlights the importance of suspecting hookworm in infants, as symptomatic cases in the first year of life are rarely documented in regions like Nigeria.