Disseminated strongyloidiasis: report of a case
Wu, M.P.; Ko, L.Y.; Chen, K.C.; Chiou, C.K.; Kou, Y.M.
Journal of the Formosan Medical Association 87(3): 402-405
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0371-7682 PMID: 3397738 Document Number: 316164
A case of Strongyloides stercoralis infection in a 68-year-old male in Taiwan, who presented with general malaise and lower leg oedema, is described. Fever and unexplained bilateral infiltrative lung lesions developed 5 days after admission to hospital. Large numbers of S. stercoralis larvae were found in bronchial washings, gastric juice and ascites. Sputum and blood sample cultures were positive for Escherichia coli. The patient's condition progressively deteriorated, in spite of mebendazole and antibiotic treatments. This case illustrates the need to test for S. stercoralis infection in immunocompromised patients presenting with fever, dyspnoea, bacteraemia and shock. Aspects of disseminated strongyloidiasis in immunocompromised patients are discussed.