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Generating Transgenics and Knockouts in Strongyloides Species by Microinjection
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Strongyloides stercoralis Infection in Immunocompromised Host
Neha Sharma1, Kaveh Zivari2, Daria Yunina2
1Internal Medicine, Maimonides Medical Center, New York City, USA.
Cureus
|February 17, 2022
Summary
Strongyloides stercoralis causes the parasitic infection Strongyloidiasis. While often asymptomatic in the US, it can be severe in immunocompromised individuals, requiring high clinical suspicion for diagnosis and simple anti-helminthic treatment.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Strongyloides stercoralis is a soil-transmitted helminth causing the neglected tropical disease Strongyloidiasis.
- In the United States, infection is often chronic and asymptomatic, posing diagnostic challenges.
- Severe Strongyloidiasis predominantly affects immunocompromised populations.
Observation:
- Immunocompromised hosts include patients undergoing chemotherapy, long-term corticosteroid therapy, organ transplant recipients, and individuals with HIV.
- Clinical presentation is frequently non-specific, with remote exposure history complicating diagnosis.
- A high index of suspicion is crucial for timely identification of Strongyloides stercoralis infection.
Findings:
- Strongyloidiasis is endemic in certain regions and can persist for decades.
- Risk factors for severe disease include immunosuppression and corticosteroid use.
- Diagnostic delays can lead to severe morbidity and mortality.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and treatment are essential, particularly in at-risk populations.
- Public health awareness and clinician education are vital for managing Strongyloides stercoralis.
- Effective treatment with oral anti-helminthics like ivermectin and albendazole is available.
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