Roundworms: Hookworm

Question 1

What is the 2nd most common helminth (parasitic worm) infection globally?

Answer 1

Hookworm

Question 2

Explain the life cycle of the Hookworm

Answer 2

Rhabdiform larve in the soil

Filariform larvae – cause infection- they can penetrate skin and migrate to blood, lung

Question 3

What are the clinical manifestations of low inoculum Hookworm?

Answer 3

Low inoculum – asymptomatic

Question 4

What are the clinical manifestations of high inoculum Hookworm?

Answer 4

Higher inoculum – major sx and dx

• Iron deficiency anemia - blood loss at attachment site
• Chronic protein malnutrition – compete for nutrients
• Skin symptoms early on (intense itching, erythema, popular vesicular rash at site of penetration)
• Loeffler’s syndrome with infiltrates, increase eosinophilia - larvae migrated to lungs

Question 5

How do you diagnose Hookworm?

Answer 5

• Stool exam for eggs (diagnostic)
• Hints (suggestive, not diagnostic)
  
  • Anemia
  • eosinophilia

Question 6

What is the treatment for Hookworm?

Answer 6

Look it up!

Question 7

How do you prevent Hookworm?

Answer 7

• Transmitted through warm, moist soil in poorly sanitized areas
• Wear shoes, proper hygiene, proper sanitation