Strongyloidiasis in immunocompromised migrants to non-endemic countries in the era of COVID-19: what is the role for presumptive ivermectin?

Sapha Barkati; Christina Greenaway; Michael D Libman

doi:10.1093/jtm/taab155

Strongyloidiasis in immunocompromised migrants to non-endemic countries in the era of COVID-19: what is the role for presumptive ivermectin?

J Travel Med. 2022 Jan 17;29(1):taab155. doi: 10.1093/jtm/taab155.

Authors

Sapha Barkati, Christina Greenaway, Michael D Libman

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to widespread use of dexamethasone. Corticosteroid therapy is an important risk factor for Strongyloides hyperinfection. Challenges associated with the performance of Strongyloides tests, and the poor availability of high quality and timely diagnostic testing, makes the use of presumptive ivermectin reasonable in selected situations.

Keywords: SARS-CoV-2; Strongyloides; Strongyloides serology; corticosteroids; dexamethasone; hyperinfection; migrants.

MeSH terms

COVID-19*
Humans
Immunocompromised Host
Ivermectin
SARS-CoV-2
Strongyloidiasis* / diagnosis
Strongyloidiasis* / drug therapy
Transients and Migrants*

Substances

Ivermectin