Strongyloidiasis with emphasis on human infections and its different clinical forms.

Area of Science:

• Neglected tropical diseases
• Parasitology
• Infectious diseases

Background:

• Strongyloidiasis, caused by Strongyloides stercoralis, is a neglected tropical disease impacting over 100 million globally.
• Chronic infections are sustained by autoinfective L3 filariform larvae, leading to long-term illness.
• Misdiagnosis, insufficient treatment, and immunosuppression-related hyperinfection syndrome contribute to high mortality rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent literature on strongyloidiasis.
• To highlight areas requiring further research for better disease control.
• To emphasize the impact of knowledge gaps on managing this neglected disease.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on strongyloidiasis.
• Analysis of different aspects of the disease, including its epidemiology and pathology.
• Identification of research gaps and areas for future investigation.

Main Results:

• Strongyloidiasis remains poorly understood compared to other helminth infections.
• The autoinfective cycle facilitates chronic infections lasting decades.
• Significant challenges exist in diagnosis, treatment, and control.

Conclusions:

• Knowledge gaps significantly hinder effective control of strongyloidiasis.
• Further research is essential to improve understanding and management of this neglected disease.
• Addressing diagnostic and treatment challenges is critical to reduce mortality.