A Contribution to the Study of Hookworm Disease in Infants.

Abstract

Fourteen cases of serious hookworm disease in infants (0 to 18 months old) are studied, in an effort to analyse the unsatisfactory results obtained with the therapy we had been using. The clinical aspects and laboratory analysis results are discussed. The results given by tethrachlorethylene and hexylresorcinol crystoids as anthelmintic are compared. Heavy doses of hexylresorcinol given orally have proved to be superior to other drugs as anthelmintics in infants. The good tolerance and apparent non toxicity of the substance are stressed. Good results are reported with a treatment including hexylresorcinol, transfusions, iron therapy, a well balanced diet and psychotherapy, regarding the general condition of the child and its blood values. With this treatment we obtained an important shortening of the period of hospitalization in serious forms of hookworm disease in infants. For the first time we can report a fully satisfactory condition on release of children hospitalized with this disease.