A condition that occurs when one or two species of nematodes, or round- worms, enter the human body. Hookworm infestation is a common cause of iron deficiency anemia among people who live in regions with a warm, humid climate, such as the tropics. The infestation generally occurs when a person’s bare skin makes direct contact with hookworm larvae. This is most likely to happen when walking barefoot on soil or a beach contaminated with hookworms from dog or cat feces.
Hookworm infestation is a condition where the small intestine is invaded by small, round, bloodsucking worms belonging to species Necator Americanus or Ancylostoma Duodenale. This infestation is predominantly found in tropical regions, especially in areas with inadequate sanitation or where human feces is used as fertilizer for agricultural purposes.
The larvae gain entry into the body either by penetrating the skin of the feet or through ingestion. They then travel throughout the body and reach maturity in the small intestine. Once fully grown, the adult worms measure approximately 12 mm in length and possess mouths with hooked teeth. They feed by attaching themselves to the intestinal wall and extracting blood. The female worms lay eggs, which are eventually excreted in the feces.
When the larvae penetrate the skin, it can lead to the development of a red and itchy rash on the feet. In mild infestations, there may not be any additional symptoms. However, in more severe cases, the larvae’s migration through the lungs can cause coughing and, in certain instances, even pneumonia. Adult worms residing in the intestines may result in abdominal discomfort. The most significant issue arising from hookworm infestation is iron-deficiency anemia, which occurs due to the loss of blood caused by the bloodsucking activity of the worms.
The diagnosis is established through the microscopic examination of feces to detect worm eggs. Anthelmintic drugs are used to eliminate and kill the worms from the body.