[Lymphoma and pruritus: search for parasites]

Abstract

Strongyloides stercoralis is a parasite that can be acquired not only in tropical and subtropical areas, but also in some European countries. This helminthiasis is often a- or paucisymptomatic, and may persist in a latent state for several decades. In case of immunosuppression, a reactivation of the disease can occur, that may result in severe -- sometimes fatal -- complications, due to a syndrome of hyperinfestation. We present two cases of reactivation in patients suffering from lymphoma under chemotherapy. Screening of this parasite should be proposed for patients that have stayed in an endemic area before any corticotherapy or other immunosuppressive treatment, and in the presence of a disease reducing the immunity.