ABSTRACT

Strongyloides stercoralis is an intestinal nematode of humans that infects tens of millions of people worldwide. It is a rarely reported parasitic infestation in Turkey. Disseminated strongyloidiosis may develop in patients with immunodeficiencies. S. stercoralis hyperinfection is often accompanied by sepsis or meningitis with enteric organisms. Glucocorticoid treatment is one of the conditions most specifically associated with triggering hyperinfection, but cases have been reported in association with hematologic malignancy, malnutrition, and AIDS. Anthelminthic agents such as ivermectin have been used successfully in treating the hyperinfection syndrome. We report a case of Strongiloides stercoralis infection and Loeffler syndrome that developed in a patient who had systemıc prednisolone. Thepatient in the pulmonary disease department clinic was examined because of right lung upper lobe mass image, and referred to us with complaints of abdominal pain, diarrhea and pruritus. Peripheral smear showed 43% eosinophilia. Parasitological examination of faeces showed larvae of Strongyloides stercoralis. Parasitosis and Loeffler’s syndrome was considered in the patient. Thepatient’s complaints declined significantly after treatment with albendazole. (Turkiye Parazitol Derg 2013; 37: 55-7)

Keywords: Strongyloides stercoralis, chronic diarrhea, Loeffler’s syndrome