DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.
Nematode infection (threadworm disease).
PathogenThis section has been translated automatically.
- Trichostrongylus colubrifomris and Trichostrongylus orientalis (nematodes).
- The 4-8 mm long adult worms parasitize in the small intestine, the eggs are excreted with the faeces. After embryonic development in the open air, a larva hatches after 1-2 days, which matures into an infectious larva within 2-4 days. This is absorbed orally and develops into an adult worm in the intestinal tract without any tissue passage. The preparation lasts about 25 days.
- Infection through salads and vegetables by contamination with larval faeces from infected animals. Occasionally, larval penetration through the skin is possible.
- Circulation between ruminants and other herbivores. The pathogens are absorbed during grazing.
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Occurrence/EpidemiologyThis section has been translated automatically.
- Worldwide, about 5 million people are infected.
- Highest infestation rate in Iran (up to 70%).
Clinical featuresThis section has been translated automatically.
- Mostly mild and asymptomatic course.
- In case of high parasite density epigastric pain, nausea, alternating diarrhoea, anaemia, inflammation of the bile ducts.
- Skin involvement is usually absent. In case of larvae penetrating the skin Larva migrans and possibly superinfection of the entry site, especially in tropical climate. Occasionally torturous non-specific perianal pruritus.
DiagnosisThis section has been translated automatically.
- Microscopy in the chair.
- Egg excretion is often low. Enrichment procedures are helpful. 75-90 x 40 µm, thick egg shell. Further embryonic development takes place in the stool (at least 16 cell morula stage).
TherapyThis section has been translated automatically.
- Albendazole: 400 mg as single dose p.o.
- Alternatively: Mebendazole: 2 times/day 100 mg p.o. for 3 days.
- Alternative: Levamisol and Pyantel.
- Alternative: Thiabendazol 25 mg/kg bw (max. 3 g total dose), divided into 2 doses for 2 days.
ProphylaxisThis section has been translated automatically.
Food hygiene.
LiteratureThis section has been translated automatically.
- Boreham RE, et al (1995) Human trichostrongyliasis in Queensland. Pathology 27:182
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Disclaimer
Please ask your physician for a reliable diagnosis. This website is only meant as a reference.
Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer