Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2026
10:12
Experimental Infection of Mice with the Parasitic Nematode Strongyloides ratti
Published on: January 17, 2025
Systemic lupus erythematosus and strongyloidiasis: a multifaceted connection
P Caramaschi1, S Marocco, M Gobbo
1Sezione di Reumatologia, Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica Sperimentale, Università di Verona, Italy. paola.caramaschi@azosp.vr.it
Lupus
|December 23, 2009
Summary
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can be complicated by strongyloidiasis, a parasitic infection. This case highlights diarrhea, weight loss, and eosinophilia during an SLE flare, underscoring the importance of considering co-infections.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease.
- Strongyloidiasis is a parasitic infection caused by Strongyloides stercoralis.
Observation:
- A patient with known SLE presented with diarrhea, weight loss, and peripheral eosinophilia.
- These symptoms coincided with a polyarthritis recurrence, suggestive of an SLE flare.
Findings:
- The case illustrates a complex interplay between SLE and strongyloidiasis.
- Peripheral eosinophilia and gastrointestinal symptoms were key indicators of the parasitic co-infection.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider strongyloidiasis in SLE patients presenting with unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms and eosinophilia.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of strongyloidiasis are crucial to prevent complications in immunocompromised SLE patients.
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