The challenge of triple intestinal parasite infections in immigrants—A call for comprehensive differential diagnosis

Abstract

Key Clinical Message

Screening for parasitic infections among displaced populations including migrants, refugees, and internally displaced persons is crucial to prevent long-term complications associated with untreated infections. Additionally, prompt treatment with appropriate medications like praziquantel and albendazole can lead to significant improvement and successful patient outcomes. This case highlights the necessity of heightened awareness, early detection, and effective management of parasitic infections to enhance public health efforts and minimize the spread of these diseases. Implementing multisectoral One Health will improve human, animal, and environmental health globally using limited resources.

Parasitic infections including Schistosoma spp., hookworm, and Strongyloides spp. are commonly co-existing diseases in underdeveloped countries including South Sudan and Sudan. These infections are often presented with no specific symptoms, therefore they remain undetected and eventually leading to long-term complications. Latent parasitic infections among adults particularly displaced population like migrants and refugees have recently gained global attention. In this case report, we present the case of a young male immigrant from South Sudan with multi-parasitic infections. The patient was admitted to a hospital complaining of gastrointestinal symptoms of hematemesis and melena, which were accompanied by signs of liver and spleen enlargement, coupled with low blood cell counts. While liver function tests showed no abnormalities, stool examinations confirmed the presence of S. mansoni, hook worm eggs, and Rhabditiform first-stage larvae of S. stercoralis. The patient was treated with medications such as praziquantel and albendazole, which resulted in full recovery and discharge from the hospital. This case highlights the importance of considering multiple infections among patients with gastrointestinal symptoms, especially in endemic areas. Cost-effective prevention and control strategy require the implementation of a multisectoral One Health strategy for the surveillance, prevention, and control of parasitic infections in human, animals, and the environment.