Strongyloides Stercoralis Infection in an Immunocompetent Patient Presenting with Shock

Abstract

Strongyloides Stercoralis is a widespread, soil-transmitted helminth affecting humans. It is generally benign and asymptomatic, eosinophilia and larvae in stool being the only indication of infection. However, it can cause substantial intestinal disease and can disseminate widely to extra-intestinal sites such as lungs, kidney or brain (the hyper infection syndrome), especially in the immunocompromised host. We report here a case that illustrates the fact that Strongyloides stercoralis infection can present with features of shock even in an immunocompetent patient.

Keywords

• strongyloidiasis
• immunocompetent
• eosinophilia