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The nematode Strongyloide stercoralis has a worldwide distribution. It is endemic in tropical climates; in the United States, it is endemic in the southeast, urban areas with large immigrant populations, and mental institutions. Stronglyoidiasis occurs primarily in adults, many of whom are hospitalized, suffer from chronic illnesses, or are immunocompromised. Corticosteroids and HTLV-1 viral infection are also associated with strongyloidiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This disease involves the penetration of the wall of the gastrointestinal tract by the larvae of Anisakis simplex or related species. Anisakis simplex is the most well known of these worms; related species that infect humans include Pseudoterranova (Phocanema) decipiens, Anasakis type II, and Contracaecum species. A. simplex and P. decipiens are responsible for most human infections. These nematodes parasitize fish and sea mammals, and thus humans ingest them by eating raw, pickled, or smoked fish. The potential for transmission to humans is greater in areas where eating raw or inadequately cooked fish is common, and thus the number of cases in the United States has increased in recent years with the popularity of sushi, sashimi, and ceviche. Even skilled chefs and consumers may have difficulty detecting the parasite in fish, although adequate cooking and freezing both kill the parasite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]