Strongyloides stercoralis over infestation - doi:10.5020/18061230.2006.p118

Abstract

Strongyloidiasis is predominantly an intestinal helminthiasis caused by Strongyloides stercoralis, being man his definitive host, besides the main source of infection. This report aimed at describing a case of laboratorial identification of Strongyloides stercoralis larvae in the ascetic fluid of a male patient, 49 years old, farmer, alcoholic for over 30 years, sent to Walter Cantídio Universitarian Hospital for being evolving with jaundice episodes associated to an increase in abdominal volume diagnosed as ascitis, vomits, pasty diarrhea and diminished urinary volume. During internment, prophylactic medication for Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis (SBP) was initiated, as well as vitamins repositioning, venous hydration and diuretics, without therapeutic success. As from the findings of presence of S. stercolaris larvae in activity in the ascetic liquid, the set of symptoms was interpreted as disseminated strongyloidiasis in immunocompromised patient by advanced alcoholic hepatopathia. The patient evolved with signs of shock characterized by hypotension and hypothermia, having used vasoactive drugs in a non-responsive way. The symptoms features evolved to death. The authors call attention to the importance of precocious diagnosis and treatment of Strongyloidiasis, mainly in immunocompromised patients.