Is strongyloidiasis a zoonosis from dogs?

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Public Health
• Parasitology

Background:

• Strongyloides stercoralis infection is a persistent global health concern, particularly affecting immunocompromised individuals and dogs.
• The transmission dynamics of S. stercoralis between dogs and humans are not well understood, hindering effective control strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the existing evidence regarding the potential for zoonotic transmission of S. stercoralis between dogs and humans.
• To explore the genetic lineages of S. stercoralis found in different hosts and geographical locations.
• To identify critical research gaps and future directions for controlling canine and human strongyloidiasis.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on S. stercoralis epidemiology and molecular genotyping in dogs and humans.
• Analysis of studies investigating potential cross-species transmission events.
• Discussion of molecular data on S. stercoralis lineages in various hosts.

Main Results:

• At least two distinct genetic lineages of S. stercoralis have been identified: one host-specific to canines and another with a broader host range including canines, felines, humans, and non-human primates.
• Identical S. stercoralis genotypes have been found in dogs and humans in the same geographical areas, but interpretation is complicated by factors like coprophagia.
• The extent and direction of zoonotic transmission remain uncertain.

Conclusions:

• The precise role of dogs as a reservoir for human strongyloidiasis, or vice versa, requires further investigation.
• Understanding the transmission patterns of S. stercoralis is crucial for developing targeted interventions and effective control strategies.
• Future research should focus on clarifying cross-species transmission dynamics to mitigate the impact of this parasitic infection.