Strongyloidiasis and AIDS: report of a case

Abstract

We report on the case of a 27 year old male whit AIDS/HIV infection. He belonged In Group II according to CDC's classification system and was being treated with AZT. He suffered protracted diarrhea which led to dehydration and rapid worsening of his general condition. Routine laboratory tests were negative. Endoscopic study of the upper gastrointestinal tract revealed esophageal candidosis, duodenogastric reflux and alkaline gastritis. Lower duodenal biopsy showed Strongyloides stercoralis larvae inside the duodenal crypts. The patient died before any treatment could be initiated. Postmortem examination was not performed. The need to consider this parasitic infection and to perform tests leading to Its diagnosis In AIDS patients is emphasized.