Screening the asymptomatic traveler returning from the tropics
Bottieau, E.; Van Gompel, A.
Revue Medicale Suisse 5(202): 1016-1021
2009
ISSN/ISBN: 1660-9379 PMID: 19530533 Document Number: 14829
Travelers to developing countries may be exposed to several infectious pathogens sometimes leading to complications after a long latency period. Screening of asymptomatic returning travelers is only justified in case of specific risks during travel or after a long tropical stay (> 3 months). Based mainly on the history taking of risk patterns, some occult infections have to be looked for: tuberculosis, sexual transmitted infections and some parasitic conditions (schistosomiasis, amebiasis, strongyloidosis,...). Post-travel screening is most effective about 3 months after return, and may be even more beneficial if associated with screening of major western morbidities and preventive counseling for future travels.
Document emailed within 1 workday
