Summary
Ankylostomiasis or hookworm infection is an intestinal infection caused by Ancylostoma duodenale or Necator americanus. Hookworms are estimated to infect over 1300 million individuals worldwide. The infection has been recognised as an important cause of intestinal blood loss leading to iron-deficiency anaemia (IDA). Ankylostomiasis affects a significant part of the population in tropical and subtropical areas because the hygienic and climatic conditions are particularly favourable for the transmission. In developed countries, hookworm infection is rare, however, it can be observed in travellers returning from developing countries and in immigrants. Clinical diagnosis is difficult because this infection does not present specific symptoms. The identification of hookworm eggs in the fecal sample during microscopic examination is indicative of the infection. Four drugs are indicated for the treatment of hookworm infections (albendazole, levamisole, mebendazole, pyrantel pamoate). In areas of high endemism, the recommended strategy for disease control is periodical (once or twice a year) treatment. The same approach is suggested for expatriates from developed countries living temporarily in endemic areas. *Authors: Dr A. Montresor and L. Savioli (February 2005)*.
