Strongyloidiasis

Definition

A disease caused by the parasitic worm Strongyloides. This disease presents with symptoms depending on the site of infection (gastrointestinal tract, pulmonary system, dermis, or systemic), or may be asymptomatic. Transmission is by direct contact through penetration of the skin (generally the feet) with larvae from faecally contaminated soil, or autoinfection of an established infection. Confirmation is by identification of Strongyloides larvae in faecal samples, duodenal fluid samples, sputum, pleural fluid, or tissue samples.

Exclusions

• Trichostrongyliasis

Index Terms