Significant advances have occurred in our understanding of the biology, immunology, and immunopathology of the usually asymptomatic human infection by the intestinal parasite, Strongyloides stercoralis. Factors that increase the risk for the occurrence of symptomatic intestinal hyperinfection and/or often-fatal disseminated strongyloidiasis have been better defined. The pathophysiology underlying these risk factors, whether disease-related or iatrogenically induced, is a compromised immune system leading to dysfunction of TH-2 helper cells. These specialized lymphocytes are central to maintaining the delicate balance that exists between the infected human host and the stabilized parasite. Recognition of risk factors that impair the function of TH-2 lymphocytes is essential to heightening the index of clinical suspicion enhancing earlier, accurate diagnosis, and the introduction of appropriate therapy. This review summarizes what is understood about infection by S. stercoralis; its focus will be on the epidemiology, diagnosis, clinical presentation patterns in the immunocompetent and immunocompromised human hosts, and recommended treatment regimens.

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Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has an impact on the quality of life of women regarding partner relationships and sexual health. Partner relationship and sexual health in women with IBD has been targeted minimally for investigation in the literature devoted to psychological, relationship, and sexual functioning. The purpose of the present article is to describe the concerns of women with IBD, specifically evaluating individual concerns, partner relationships, and sexual functioning after surgery and to elucidate some of the difficulties in identifying such problems. Gynecologic issues and pregnancy concerns are described. Actual case studies are presented that reveal many of the difficulties women with IBD encounter in their relationships as a consequence of disease activity and treatment interventions. Additional research evaluating relationship difficulties, sexual comfort, and sexual behaviors as a consequence of disease activity is required to understand further and improve the quality of life and well-being of these women.