Strongyloides stercoralis

Strongyloidiasis (also known as threadworm) is an infection caused by the intestinal nematode Strongyloides stercoralis (and rarely S. fülleborni).

• it is endemic in the tropics and subtropics but also seen in countries with temperate climates, people who have lived or travelled to these areas are also at risk
• infection can be either acute or chronic in nature

Transmission of the infection may occur through:

• direct penetration of human skin by infective larvae when in contact with soil e.g. - walking barefoot
• oro-anal contact - seen in homosexual men
• solid organ transplants - there have been reports of transmission of the infection derived from the donor organ
• faecal-oral route - may be possible when larvae contaminated water is used to wash vegetables in endemic areas

Most infections are asymptomatic however immunosuppressed individuals may suffer gross infection.

Reference

1. World Gastroenterology Organisation. WGO practice guideline: management of strongyloidiasis. February 2018 [internet publication]