Topic overview

Start with the big picture

The lesson organizes nematodes into intestinal species—such as Ascaris, Enterobius, hookworms, Trichuris, and Strongyloides—and tissue or filarial species, including Wuchereria, Brugia, Onchocerca, and Loa loa. It compares key anthelmintics: albendazole and mebendazole impair microtubule assembly; pyrantel disrupts neuromuscular function; ivermectin promotes flaccid paralysis; and diethylcarbamazine acts against microfilariae. Drug selection depends on the parasite and clinical context. The source notes distinctions in albendazole administration for luminal versus tissue infections, cautions for pregnancy and young children, and serious concerns with ivermectin in high Loa loa microfilaremia. It also introduces doxycycline as an adjunct targeting Wolbachia and flags Strongyloides hyperinfection in immunosuppressed patients.