What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Strongyloides Infection

What is Strongyloidiasis (Definition/Background Information)

• Strongyloidiasis is a parasitic infection caused by the Strongyloides stercoralis worm. It can affect the intestine and can have a range of symptoms. The infection is more common in tropical and subtropical regions and can affect individuals of a diverse age group
• Strongyloidiasis is transmitted through contact with contaminated soil or in close contact with infected individuals. The risk factors include living in or visiting areas where the disease is prevalent, having a compromised immune system, and working in occupations that involve close soil contact
• The signs and symptoms of Strongyloidiasis can vary and include abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation, fatigue, rash, and weight loss. The infection can lead to complications such as sepsis or disseminated Strongyloidiasis in severe cases.
• Diagnosis is made through a combination of physical examination and laboratory testing. A stool sample will be taken and tested for the presence of Strongyloides stercoralis worms or eggs
• The treatment of Strongyloidiasis usually involves medications to kill the worms. The specific type of medication and duration of treatment will depend on the severity of the infection
• To prevent Strongyloidiasis, good hygiene is essential, such as washing one’s hands regularly and avoiding contact with contaminated soil. It is also important to avoid close contact with infected individuals
• The prognosis for Strongyloidiasis is generally good with proper treatment. However, the infection can be severe and potentially lead to complications in some cases, particularly in individuals with a compromised immune system

Who gets Strongyloidiasis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Strongyloidiasis can affect individuals of all ages and both male and female genders
• It is more common in tropical and subtropical regions of the world

What are the Risk Factors for Strongyloidiasis? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Strongyloidiasis include

• Living in or visiting areas where the disease is prevalent
• Having a compromised immune system
• Working in occupations that involve contact with soil

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Strongyloidiasis? (Etiology)

• Strongyloidiasis is caused by the Strongyloides stercoralis worm
• It is transmitted through contact with contaminated soil or from an infected individual

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Strongyloidiasis?

The signs and symptoms of Strongyloidiasis can vary, but common presentations include:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Fatigue
• Rash
• Weight loss

How is Strongyloidiasis Diagnosed?

• Strongyloidiasis is diagnosed through a physical examination and laboratory testing
• A stool sample may be taken and tested for Strongyloides stercoralis worms or eggs

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Strongyloidiasis?

In severe cases, Strongyloidiasis can lead to complications such as sepsis or disseminated Strongyloidiasis.

How is Strongyloidiasis Treated?

• Treatment for Strongyloidiasis usually involves medications to kill the worms
• The specific type of medication and duration of treatment will depend on the severity of the infection

How can Strongyloidiasis be Prevented?

To prevent Strongyloidiasis, the following measures may be considered:

• Practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly
• Avoid contact with contaminated soil
• Avoid close contact with infected individuals

What is the Prognosis of Strongyloidiasis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis for strongyloidiasis is generally good with proper treatment.
• However, the infection can be severe and can potentially lead to complications in some cases, particularly in individuals with a compromised immune system.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Strongyloidiasis:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/common-procedures/procedures-laboratory/blood-culture