A retrospective study of autochthonous strongyloidiasis in Region Midi-Pyrenees (Southwestern France)

In order to assess the existence of autochthonous strongyloidiasis, a retro spective study was carried out in Region Midi-Pyrenees (Southwestern France ). Among 63 strongyloidiasis cases diagnosed at the Consultation of the Dep artment of Parasitology, CHU Purpan in Toulouse, 17 patients (27%) were ide ntified as likely harboring an autochthonous infection. The diagnosis was b ased upon the results of either Baermann's method for stool examination, or indirect fluoroimmunoassay using Strongyloidiasis ratti L-3 larvae as anti gen. Repeated contact with soil or mud, due to occupation or gardening, was found in 13 patients. Twelve cases lived in the upper basin of the Garonne River. The clinical and laboratory findings were similar to those reported by the literature. No case of larva currens was observed. These results su ggest that a permanent transmission of strongyloidiasis possibly exists in Region Midi-Pyrenees, requiring further prospective studies.