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

Abstract

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.

Keywords:

• hookworm
• iron-deficiency anemia
• endoscopy

Acknowledgment

We thank everyone who helped with the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of the patient. The authors acknowledge the patient for providing consent for the publication of this case.

Author Contributions

Both authors contributed equally to the work reported, whether in the conception, study design, execution, data acquisition, analysis, and interpretation, or in all of these areas; participated in the drafting, revising, or critical review of the article; gave final approval of the version to be published; agreed on the journal to which the article was submitted; and agreed to be responsible for all aspects of the work.

Disclosure

The authors have no conflicts of interest in this case report.