Strongyloides infection

Clinical criteria

Although there are no formal diagnostic criteria, infection is sometimes categorised according to the stage of disease.

• Acute strongyloidiasis: characterised by localised pruritic erythematous rash at site of penetration, cough, tracheal irritation, and gastrointestinal symptoms.

• Chronic strongyloidiasis (or gastrointestinal strongyloidiasis): patients are generally asymptomatic, but eosinophilia and cutaneous or gastrointestinal symptoms may be present.

• Hyperinfection syndrome/disseminated strongyloidiasis: occurs when patients with chronic strongyloidiasis become immunosuppressed and have a high mortality rate; characterised by abdominal pain, diffuse pulmonary infiltrates, and septicaemia or meningitis.