<i>Strongyloides</i> hyperinfection syndrome after intestinal transplantation

Abstract

Strongyloides stercoralis is a helminth with the ability to autoinfect the human host and persist asymptomatically for several years. Immunosuppression can accelerate autoinfection and result in Strongyloides hyperinfection syndrome (SHS), which is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Immunosuppressed solid organ transplant recipients, particularly in the setting of rejection, are at increased risk for reactivation of latent infections, such as Strongyloides. We describe a case of SHS in an intestinal transplant recipient; we hypothesize that she acquired the infection from the donor. We also review the current literature and address both prophylaxis and treatment of strongyloidiasis in the solid organ transplant patient.