Drug Resistance in Nematodes

Abstract

Drug resistance in nematodes is almost solely confined to the strongylid parasites of the alimentary tract of grazing livestock. Few reports have been made on the resistance in plant-parasitic nematodes (Foot, 1980), and none for nematode parasites of man. Unlike drug resistance in bacteria, protozoa, and arthropods, resistance in nematodes to anthelmintics has been slow to develop and is patchy in worldwide distribution. However, this does not constitute grounds for complacency. It is not necessary for anthelmintic resistance to have reached a high level to be a serious problem. Evidence that it has increased from negligibly small levels and that it exists in two of the three widely used broad-spectrum drug groups means it would be foolhardy to assume that its prevalence and thus importance will not escalate, unless effective countermeasures are undertaken.