Overview
Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are caused by parasitic worms like Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworms, and Trichuris trichiura, affecting approximately 24% of the global population, particularly in low-income countries 13. These infections contribute to malnutrition, anemia, impaired cognitive development, and increased mortality in children 1.Diagnosis
Stool microscopy remains the gold standard for diagnosing STH infections 13.
Kato-Katz thick smear technique is commonly used for quantifying egg counts 3.
No specific grading system universally accepted; diagnosis typically based on presence of eggs 3.Management
First-line treatment: Albendazole is widely used, with standard doses varying by age and weight (e.g., 400 mg for children ≥1 year) 2.
Mass drug administration (MDA): Recommended for endemic areas to reduce prevalence and transmission 2.
Monitoring for adverse effects: Essential, especially in mass administration programs, to identify and manage potential side effects 2.Special Populations
Pregnancy: Limited specific guidance; albendazole use should be carefully considered due to potential risks 2.
Pediatrics: Albendazole dosing adjusted by weight; MDA programs effectively target school-aged children 23.
Elderly: No specific data provided; general treatment guidelines apply with caution considering comorbidities 2.Key Recommendations
Install concrete floors in homes with soil floors to reduce STH infection rates in children (Evidence: Moderate 1).
Implement mass drug administration (MDA) programs using albendazole for control in endemic regions (Evidence: Strong 2).
Monitor adverse effects closely during mass drug administration programs to ensure safety, particularly in school-aged children (Evidence: Moderate 2).References
1 Rahman M, Jahan F, Hanif S, Yeamin A, Shoab AK, Andrews JR et al.. Effects of household concrete floors on maternal and child health: the CRADLE trial - a randomised controlled trial protocol. BMJ open 2025. link
2 Sheoran B, Deb T, Misra S, Tuteja M, Vohra A, Beniwal R. Safety Profile of Mass Administration of Albendazole Among School Children (6-19 Years): A Prospective Active Surveillance Study. Current drug safety 2025. link
3 Karshima SN. Prevalence and distribution of soil-transmitted helminth infections in Nigerian children: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Infectious diseases of poverty 2018. link
4 Acevedo N, Mohr J, Zakzuk J, Samonig M, Briza P, Erler A et al.. Proteomic and immunochemical characterization of glutathione transferase as a new allergen of the nematode Ascaris lumbricoides. PloS one 2013. link