Strongyloides stercoralis: highlighting an imported case of the neglected parasite

Abstract

Travel-related strongyloidiasis is described in an HIV-infected individual who previously tested positive for schistosomiasis. This report illustrates that a positive serological result for schistosomiasis may represent a co-infection but may potentially occur as a result of cross-reactivity. Routine testing for schistosomiasis but not for strongyloidiasis in HIV-infected individuals who have spent more than one month in sub-Saharan Africa is recommended in recent UK HIV care guidelines. Therefore we recommend that further consideration should be given to routine investigations for other parasites including Strongyloides species in these circumstances.

Keywords: AIDS; HIV; diagnosis; guidelines; parasitic infection; schistosomiasis; strongyloidiasis; treatment.