A rare fatal parasitic infestation in an immunocompetent patient: a case report

Strongyloides stercoralis is a parasitic nematode that can cause a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from mild gastrointestinal symptoms to life-threatening disseminated disease, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Perforated colitis associated with Strongyloides infection is an extremely rare occurrence. We report a rare and unusual case of a 60-year-old immunocompetent male from India, an endemic region for the parasite, who presented with an acute abdomen due to Strongyloides stercoralis-induced perforated colitis. This case underscores that even immunocompetent individuals in endemic areas may develop severe complications from Strongyloides stercoralis infection. Early recognition of the parasite and prompt initiation of appropriate antiparasitic therapy are essential to prevent potentially life-threatening outcomes such as perforated colitis.