Clinical and epidemiological features of 33 imported Strongyloides stercoralis infections.

Strongyloides stercoralis has a unique ability to replicate in the human host and lead to chronic infection that can persist for several decades. Thirty-three patients (10 travellers and 23 immigrants) with imported S. stercoralis infection were studied and clinical and epidemiological characteristics described. Only 16 patients (48.5%) reported symptoms, mainly of the gastrointestinal tract. Eosinophilia was present in 21 (63.6%) patients. Seven patients (21.2%) had an immunocompromising condition. Patients were classified into chronic asymptomatic infection (17/33, 51.5%), chronic symptomatic infection (11/33, 33.3%) and hyperinfection (5/33, 15.2%). Four of the latter (80%) had an immunocompromising condition. Strongyloides stercoralis infection should be considered in immigrants and travellers with eosinophilia or compatible symptoms coming from endemic areas. Diagnosis should always be sought in immunocompromised hosts.