​Infectious Diseases and Microbiology - Strongyloidiasis ( Strongyloides stercoralis)

​Infectious Diseases and Microbiology - Strongyloidiasis ( Strongyloides stercoralis) 
Strongyloidiasis is a parasitic infection  which is caused by Strongyloides stercoralis  which is a parasitic nematode.
 An intestinal nematode, also known as a roundworm. Distinguished by its ability to alternate between a parasitic life cycle and a free-living cycle.
Threadworm is an alternative name for this organism.
 Located throughout the southern and southwestern regions of the United States, as well as in tropical regions across the globe. Infection occurs when fillariform larvae in soil infected with human feces penetrate the skin directly, similar to hookworm infection. Eggs excreted in feces have the potential to mature into larvae and subsequently adults in the soil, giving rise to eggs and larvae outside the host.

Eosinophilia can occur as the sole indication of an infection. Symptomatic infections may manifest as pnemonitis, watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, and the presence of blood in the stool, depending on the worm burden and immunologic competency of the individual. Hyperinfection syndrome, which occurs in persons with weakened immune systems (such as those on corticosteroids), is characterized by the spread of larvae to several organs, including the lungs, central nervous system, and heart.
Perforation of the colonic wall might result in subsequent bacterial infections. Autoinfection is frequently observed in individuals who have a large number of worms in their body.

 Following entrance, the larvae undergo a process of lung migration. The maturation of worms occurs within the small intestine, where they subsequently generate eggs. Ova have the ability to hatch within the intestinal tract and the developing larvae can directly infiltrate the intestine, leading to internal autoinfection.
Larvae that infect the region around the anus might lead to external autoinfection. Additional larvae are excreted in feces.
The development of disease depends on the number of worms present.

 Feces testing may reveal distinctive larvae, but it may be necessary to check multiple fresh feces samples before a definitive diagnosis is made.

Ivermectin, thiabendazole, or albendazole are effective treatments for the majority of patients. Preventive measures encompass the utilization of footwear, dissemination of knowledge regarding transmission and hygiene, and the management of human excrement.