Persistent eosinophilia among 21 historic cases of Strongyloides stercoralis infection: a case for routine follow-up and repeat treatment.

BACKGROUND

Strongyloidasis affects more than 100 million people worldwide and causes persisting infection.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 21 cases of parasitologically confirmed Strongyloides stercoralis infection at our centre.

RESULTS

We found four individuals who had eosinophilia (>0.5x109/litre) more than 6 mo after treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

This may represent ongoing or relapsed infection. Our data support the need for continued follow-up of treated individuals, particularly those with abnormal host defences who are at risk of severe forms of the disease.