[Strongyloidiasis as a cause of multiorganic failure]

Strongyloides stercoralis is a parasite that has the ability to reproduce within humans, which explains its persistence for many years. It lives in the duodenum and ileum, between the enterocytes, and opens up to the intestinal lumen. Historically it is associated with tropical and subtropical rural areas, but its development has been seen in microclimates that favour the biological cycle. In Argentina, the diagnosis in the Province of Buenos Aires is not common, being more common in northern Argentina. Due to a common disease with atypical presentation, we present the case of a male, 25-year-old patient, that consulted for abdominal pain, fever, and vomiting. Medical history: hypothyroidism, chronic colitis ongoing study. Laboratory: anemia and erythrocyte sedimentation rate elevated. Coproculture: usual flora. It was interpreted as inflammatory bowel disease. He evolved with hemodynamic instability, respiratory failure, worsening of anemia, coagulopathy, and metabolic acidosis. Exploratory laparoscopy: dilation of intestinal loops, a stiff appearance in the ileum, and mesenteric petechiae were observed. He evolved with hemoptysis; it was suspected vasculitis. He died on the first 24 hours of admission to intensive care. Biopsy: Strongyloides stercoralis. Chronic use of corticosteroids may have been deleterious for the patient.