A case of Strongyloides Stercoralis induced duodenitis and pancreatitis

Abstract

Strongyloidiasis is endemic in tropical and sub-tropical regions however cases of strongyloidiasis have been reported in temperate climates. Corticosteroid use, immunosuppression, infection with human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV1), and chronic alcohol use are the most common and well-established risk factors for strongyloidiasis. Due to Strongyloides stercoralis characteristic features of hyperinfection and dissemination, it can potentially cause a lethal infection in an immunocompromised individual. Strongyloidiasis is predominantly asymptomatic, however some unusual manifestations of strongyloidiasis include duodenal obstruction, ileus, reactive arthritis, ascites, hepatic lesions, and pancreatitis. Here we present a case of a 47-year-old-St. Lucian female who was found to have duodenitis and pancreatitis secondary to Strongyloides stercoralis in the setting of underlying HTLV-1 infection and chronic alcohol use.

Keywords

• Strongyloidiasis
• Duodenitis
• HTLV 1
• Dissemination
• Hyperinfection