Strongyloides Stercoralis Hyperinfection After Corticosteroid Therapy: A Report of Two Cases

Two casesof Strongyloides stercoralis hyperinfection are described. Both patients were expatriates from the Indian subcontinent, and reported the use of corticosteroids. The first patient presented with severe pulmonary disease that necessitated respiratory support, followed by acute abdomen and intestinal obstruction and he succumbed to these diseases. The second patient also presented with acute pulmonary disease, which responded to antihelmintic treatment and supportive care; however, he died later due to his primary disease. The clinical featuresof S stercoralis hyperinfection are nonspecific; therefore, a high index of suspicion is required for early diagnosis and to start appropriate therapy. Because of the seriousness of the disease and the associated high mortality we suggest screening for 5stercoralis in patients from endemic areas who will be taking immunosuppressive therapy. Ann Saudi Med 2009; 29(5): 397-401
Source: Annals of Saudi Medicine - Category: General Medicine Tags: ISSUE 5 Source Type: research