Current Therapeutic Strategies for SoilTransmitted Helminthiasis

Soil-transmitted helminths [STH] are described as neglected tropical disorders (NTDS) since these impose terrific distress and disability, nevertheless, they can be eradicated or controlled. The pervasiveness of STH is more usual in rustic/bucolic areas than in city areas. STH signifies the worms present in the intestine provoking infection in humans and are transmitted/ conveyed via unhygienic/ dirty soil. “Helminth” denotes a parasitic worm and the causative agents/ chief species that can harm humans are the hookworms (Ancylostomaduodenale and Necatoramericanus), whipworms (Trichuristrichiura) and roundworms (Ascarislumbricoides). Various features namely, Hypersensitivity reaction (Type -1), the response of defective Th2, mucosal inflammation, volvulus, obstruction of small bowel and intussusception, blood loss in the mucosa, anaemia, etc. are involved in the pathophysiology of STH. To control mortality and morbidity, WHO has recommended population-based, specific, and target-based approaches. The medications recommended by WHO are Albendazole, Levamisole, Mebendazole, and Pyrantelpamoate as a single dose. Preclinical studies are being carried out on the ayurvedic and herbal treatments employing medicinal plants for STH infections as these are compatible with the body and have fewer side effects. The infection is now considered a major public health issue; the major role played by poor sanitation and hygiene in addition to this is certain environmental conditions. Thus, soil-conveyed helminth infections have a primary influence on socio-economic progress and advancement of society where occurrence rates are higher as such acquired infections influence the performance of adults to do work properly and provoke absenteeism amongst school-going children.

Keywords: Ancylostomaduodenale, Ascarislumbricoides, Adult parasitic worm, Cytokines, Anaemia, Anthelminthic, Deworming, Hypersensitivity reaction, Health education, Hookworm infection, Interlukin, IgE, Larvae, Lumbricoides, Mucosal inflammation, Necatoramericanus, Roundworm, Sanitation, STH, Soil transmitted Helminth, Trichuristrichiura, Th2 response, Unhygienic, Volvulus, Whipworm.