INTESTINAL GEOHELMINTHIASIS IN THE DEVELOPING-WORLD

Intestinal parasitic helminths such as roundworms (Ascaris lumbricoide s), hookworms (Ancylostoma doudenale and Necator americanus) and whipw orm (Trichuris trichiura) are common in the developing world. Strongyl oides stercoralis, though not so common, also contributes to health pr oblems. The prevalence of intestinal worm infestation in India varies from 5% to 76%, which is similar to that in other developing countries . These parasitic infestations are acquired by ingestion, inhalation o r penetration of the skin by the infective forms. Ascaris causes many intestinal and respiratory symptoms and plays an important role in pre cipitating protein-energy malnutrition in undernourished children. Hoo kworms cause anaemia and hypoproteinaemia. In areas where hookworm inf estation is endemic, 90% of pregnant mothers are anaemic. Trichuriasis as a causative agent of human disease has only recently gained attent ion. Heavy infestation with 7. trichiura can result in severe colitis and significant blood loss. This in turn can lead to impaired cognitiv e functions which are reversible on treatment. Though not as widely pr evalent as the other geohelminths in India, Strongyloides stercoralis infestation can be fatal in debilitated and immunosuppressed children. So far, the impact of these parasites on the health of children has b een underestimated and concentrated efforts to minimize the worm load and its consequences have not been given due importance in our health policies. This article reviews the pathophysiology, clinical impact an d control options of the most commonly prevalent geohelminths in the d eveloping world.