Abstract

RODRIGUEZ-GUARDADO, A. et al. Hookworm as cause of iron deficiency anemia in the prison population. Rev. esp. sanid. penit. [online]. 2013, vol.15, n.2, pp.63-65. ISSN 2013-6463.

We report a case of hookworm parasitosis in a Spanish patient who before imprisonment had lived in Brazil. The diagnosis was established from a progressive manifestation of asthenia, together with significant weight loss. Laboratory tests showed hypochromic microcytic anemia and eosinophilia. Consequently, the patient was admitted to hospital in order to complete the study, where several hookworm eggs were later found in feces. The patient was subsequently treated with Albendazole and iron,achieving clinical cure, normalization of biochemical parameters and eventual eradication of the parasite. We believe it is important for the prison doctor to bear this and other parasitosis in mind when facing the case of inmates who are originally from tropical countries, where these parasites are endemic. In addition, it might be appropriate to implement parasite screening programs in the immigrant population headed by the Prison Health Service, even when said population is asymptomatic.

Keywords : Hookworm; Anemia; Iron-Deficiency; Prisons; Asthenia; Emigration and Immigration; Infection; Parasites; Neglected Diseases; Spain.

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