Southern medical journal
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A case of disseminated S stercoralis is an immunosuppressed patient manifested with diarrhea, a rash, and progressive respiratory insufficiency. The parasites were eradicated with thiabendazole despite continued steroid therapy, and the patient survived the hospitalization. The characteristics of S stercoralis allow it to be harbored within a host for prolonged periods of time, only to disseminate once cell-mediated immunity is suppressed. ⋯ Prompt diagnosis and initiation of thiabendazole therapy provides the greatest opportunity for patient survival. Secondary bacterial infections should be aggressively sought. Mortality from disseminated strongyloidiasis approaches 80%.