A case of masquerading bronchopneumonia

Area of Science:

• Medical Parasitology
• Infectious Diseases
• Clinical Case Reports

Background:

• Strongyloides stercoralis (S. stercoralis) infection is prevalent in South East Asia, including India.
• Chronic S. stercoralis infection commonly presents with gastrointestinal and respiratory symptoms.
• Hyperinfection and dissemination typically occur in immunocompromised individuals, often mimicking other severe conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report an unusual case of S. stercoralis hyperinfection and dissemination.
• To document this rare occurrence in an immunocompetent patient.
• To provide a reference for future clinical management and understanding.

Main Methods:

• Case report presentation.
• Review of clinical presentation and diagnostic findings.
• Literature review on S. stercoralis hyperinfection in immunocompetent hosts.

Main Results:

• The patient, despite being immunocompetent, developed severe S. stercoralis hyperinfection and dissemination.
• Clinical manifestations were severe and required intensive management.
• This presentation underscores the potential for severe outcomes even without overt immunosuppression.

Conclusions:

• S. stercoralis hyperinfection and dissemination can occur in immunocompetent individuals, albeit rarely.
• Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for S. stercoralis in endemic areas, regardless of immune status.
• This case emphasizes the need for broader diagnostic considerations in severe, unexplained illnesses.