Endoscopic Diagnosis of Hookworm Disease in a Patient with Severe Iron Deficiency Anemia: A Case Report

Hookworm infection is an important cause of iron deficiency anemia, especially in heavily infected high-risk populations residing in underdeveloped tropical countries. Stool examination is the main method used for hookworm diagnosis; however, its sensitivity is relatively low. Hookworm infections ha...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:International medical case reports journal 2023-01, Vol.16, p.841-845
Main Authors: Tiremo, Shamil Nuri, Shibeshi, Mulugeta Sitot
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Care and treatment
Case Report
Endoscopy
Health aspects
hookworm
Hookworm disease
Iron compounds
Iron deficiency anemia
Pyrantel pamoate
Sulfates
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Summary:Hookworm infection is an important cause of iron deficiency anemia, especially in heavily infected high-risk populations residing in underdeveloped tropical countries. Stool examination is the main method used for hookworm diagnosis; however, its sensitivity is relatively low. Hookworm infections have been incidentally diagnosed during routine upper gastrointestinal endoscopies. We present the case of a 60-year-old Ethiopian farmer who had severe iron deficiency anemia and positive occult blood in the stool. Repeated stool examinations revealed no ova or parasites. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed the presence of hookworms in the duodenum. The patient was treated with albendazole and ferrous sulfate. Careful endoscopic examination of the duodenum is crucial for identifying unsuspected hookworm infection responsible for chronic gastrointestinal bleeding and iron deficiency anemia.
ISSN:1179-142X
1179-142X
DOI:10.2147/IMCRJ.S443625