[Intestinal and disseminated strongyloidosis: two case studies]

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Parasitology
• Immunology

Background:

• Systemic strongyloidiasis is a severe complication of intestinal strongyloidiasis, characterized by high mortality.
• Its incidence is rising due to increased use of immunosuppressive and cytotoxic therapies.
• Immunosuppression is a key risk factor for developing severe forms of strongyloidiasis.

Observation:

• Two cases of strongyloidiasis are presented: one uncomplicated intestinal strongyloidiasis in an HIV-positive woman.
• The second case involved fatal disseminated strongyloidiasis in a child with a history of brain ganglioglioma treated with surgery, radiotherapy, and corticosteroids.
• These cases illustrate the spectrum of strongyloidiasis, from intestinal to disseminated forms.

Findings:

• Disseminated strongyloidiasis can be fatal, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
• The clinical presentation varies significantly based on the host's immune status.
• Pathological mechanisms underlying both intestinal and disseminated strongyloidiasis are crucial for understanding disease progression.

Implications:

• Enhanced awareness and prompt diagnosis of strongyloidiasis are critical for effective management.
• Early treatment can prevent progression to life-threatening systemic disease.
• Understanding risk factors, especially immunosuppression, is vital for proactive screening and treatment strategies.