Case Report: Disseminated Strongyloidiasis in a Patient with COVID-19

Abstract

The SARS-CoV-2 virus has emerged and rapidly evolved into a current global pandemic. Although bacterial and fungal coinfections have been associated with COVID-19, little is known about parasitic infection. We report a case of a COVID-19 patient who developed disseminated strongyloidiasis following treatment with high-dose corticosteroids and tocilizumab. Screening for Strongyloides infection should be pursued in individuals with COVID-19 who originate from endemic regions before initiating immunosuppressive therapy.

COVID-19 epidemic in the US—A gateway to screen for tuberculosis, HIV, viral hepatitides, Chagas disease, and other neglected tropical diseases among Hispanics

“…Although not exclusive of Hispanics/Latins, treating clinicians should evaluate the screening of additional NTDs such as schistosomiasis and strongyloidiasis or other soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) among other minority groups or immigrants in the presence of appropriate risk factors. The use of corticosteroids—a well-known risk factor for Strongyloides hyperinfection—is making strongyloidiasis screening and treatment crucial in the management of COVID-19 infection in patients at risk [ 18 ]. NTDs and COVID-19 disproportionately affect communities experiencing poverty and hospital admission.…”

Case Report: COVID-19 and Chagas Disease in Two Coinfected Patients

“…Some patients with COVID-19 develop severe disease characterized by respiratory and systemic syndromes. 20 Chronic underdiagnosed diseases, such as indeterminate form CD, and other coinfections, 21 – 23 may alter the disease course and represent a significant risk factor for poor COVID-19 outcomes.…”

Concurrent Antibiotic Therapy in Disseminated Strongyloidiasis

“…We read with great interest the case report presented by Lier et al 1 on disseminated strongyloidiasis in a patient with COVID-19. This publication serves as a strong reminder for clinicians involved in the management of COVID-19 to consider Strongyloides hyperinfection in patients with COVID-19 who demonstrate little or no improvement after receiving medications associated with immunosuppression, especially corticosteroids and tumor necrosis factor inhibitors.…”