Systematic Review of Strongyloides stercoralis Infection Diagnosis in Southeast Asia: Insights from Parasitological, Molecular, and Serological Approaches.

Abstract

Accurate diagnosis of strongyloidiasis is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of complications. We reviewed the current landscape of diagnostic assays used in detecting Strongyloides infection in Southeast Asia. A literature search was performed using Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases spanning the last three decades. Based on the exclusion and inclusion criteria, 52 papers were included in this review. We outlined the diagnostic methods used and their advantages and drawbacks. Insensitive parasitological methods were commonly used, thus underscoring the underestimation of Strongyloides infection rates in Southeast Asia. A combination of diagnostic methods (i.e., microscopy, molecular techniques, and serology) is preferred because it leads to more effective detection and higher prevalence rates. New approaches have been developed, including urine ELISAs and rapid lateral flow tests. Improving and standardizing diagnostics and making them more accessible can improve Strongyloides prevalence estimates and facilitate control efforts.