Strongyloides stercoralis, a nematode (roundworm) that causes parasitic infections, is the source of intestinal strongyloidiasis. Tropical and subtropical locations are home to this parasite, especially those with inadequate hygienic and sanitation standards. Strongyloides infection is thought to affect between 30 and 100 million people globally, with rural areas of developing nations having the highest frequency of infection. Strongyloides are spread by coming into contact with contaminated soil. Usually through the use of bare feet, the infectious larvae enter the body through the skin and travel through the bloodstream to the lungs, where they are swallowed after being coughed up. The larvae develop into adult worms in the small intestine, where they burrow beneath the mucosa to feed on tissue fluids and blood. Intestinal strongyloidiasis symptoms can range greatly, from moderate or nonexistent to severe and even fatal. Many times, people may not show any symptoms at all for years, especially in the case of chronic illnesses. When they do appear, symptoms may include: discomfort and pain in the abdomen diarrhea, which could be bloody or watery vomiting and nausea Loss of weight Weakness and exhaustion Itching, hives, or skin rash, especially where the larvae have pierced the skin symptoms of the respiratory system, including cough and wheeze, if larvae travel to the lungs Serious complications from a Strongyloides infection are possible, particularly in those with compromised immune systems. The parasite's ability to replicate inside its host is unique; this allows it to start an autoinfection cycle in which it continuously produces larvae that can spread to different sections of the body. This may lead to disseminated strongyloidiasis or hyperinfection syndrome, in which the parasite affects several organs including the liver, lungs, and central nervous system. If treatment for this ailment is delayed, it may be fatal. Because intestinal strongyloidiasis presents differently and requires specialist testing, diagnosing it can be difficult. Exams of the stool may not always reveal the presence of the parasite, particularly in cases of persistent infections where the larvae may not regularly excrete in the stool. Although serological testing for the detection of Strongyloides antibodies can be more sensitive, they might not be able to discriminate between infections from the past and present. Strongyloides infections are typically treated with anthelmintic drugs, which effectively kill adult worms. Examples of such drugs are albendazole and ivermectin. Nevertheless, hospitalization and more intensive care can be required in situations of hyperinfection or widespread illness. The main strategies for prevention include treating affected people and their close contacts to stop the spread of the parasite, enhancing sanitation, and encouraging shoe usage in places where it is common.
