Hookworm infection

Hookworm infection

Hookworm infection is caused by the parasitic worm Ancylostoma duodenale or Necator americanus, a roundworm that lives in the human small intestine. The worm sucks blood from the intestinal wall, causing anemia and iron deficiency. Infection is common in tropical and subtropical areas with unsanitary conditions and poor stool management. Large infections can lead to hypoproteinemia and edema.

Causes and Risk Factors
-Infection: Filariform larvae penetrate the skin directly (e.g., through bare feet) or through contaminated food or water.
-Source of infection: Soil containing the feces of infected individuals, as the worm eggs hatch into larvae in the soil.
-Risk factors: Children and adults walking barefoot, agricultural areas, confined social environments, poor hygiene, and hot, humid climates that favor parasite growth.
Pathophysiology:
-Larvae enter the skin → move through blood vessels to the lungs → cough → swallow → small intestine
-Adults in the small intestine → suck blood from the intestinal wall → cause iron deficiency anemia. - Massive infection → Malnutrition, weight loss, and growth retardation in children

Clinical Symptoms
Key Stages
-Skin Stage → Itchy, red, swollen, and small blisters on the feet (ground itch)
-Pulmonary Stage → Cough, sore throat, and a little phlegm (called Loeffler's syndrome)
-Intestinal Stage → Abdominal pain, nausea, loss of appetite, diarrhea, or constipation. Some people experience bloating.
-Chronic Stage → Anemia, pallor, fatigue, palpitations, fatigue, and exertion. Growth retardation in children

Diagnosis
1. Stool Examination
- Hookworm eggs found
- Multiple samples may be tested as eggs are not released daily.
2. Blood Tests
-CBC: Anemia, low Hb, low ferritin (iron deficiency)
- Some people may have mild eosinophilia.
3. Exposure History
- Walking barefoot in soil or at-risk areas. - Poorly sanitary agricultural areas

Treatment
Anti-parasitic drugs (Anthelmintics)
Drugs
Dosage and duration
Notes
Albendazole
400 mg single dose is the most popular drug.
A single dose is effective.
Mebendazole
100 mg twice daily for 3 days or 500 mg single dose.
Alternatively, Pyrantel pamoate
11 mg/kg single dose
Safe for children

Nutritional supplementation
-Iron: Helps treat anemia
-Protein and minerals: Treat malnutrition

Prevention
-Wear shoes when walking on dirt
-Wash hands before meals
-Proper fecal management
-Provide community hygiene education

Should or shouldn't:
-Test and treat if infection is suspected or detected
-Prevent reinfection by modifying behavior and environment.
*Do not neglect this as it can cause severe anemia, stunted growth in children, and affect physical development.




Summary
Hookworm infection is caused by intestinal tapeworms that enter the body through the skin or food. The main symptoms are anemia, diarrhea, and nausea. Treatment is with anti-parasitic drugs and iron supplements.