A case of Strongyloides stercoralis in central Louisiana

A typical case of Strongyloides stercoralis in a nonimmunocompromised host is described in which the diagnosis was made only by examination of purged stools. Strongyloides stercoralis probably occurs in 3% to 5% of patients in the rural south. It also occurs in selected populations of southeast Asian immigrants and American veterans of war in the Far East. Because of its capacity for reinfection, unusually long infestations can occur. Hyperinfections, with 50% mortality, may occur in iatrogenically or naturally immunocompromised patients. Consequently, a high index of suspicion, coupled with aggressive persistence in obtaining stool samples, is necessary for timely recognition and treatment of this potentially fatal disorder.