[Treatment of diseases caused by parasites]

Abstract

Parasitic infections occur worldwide and cause significant morbidity and mortality, especially in tropical areas. In recent years, the interest in these infections has grown because of the increase in immigration, international travel, and international adoptions. In Spain, these factors have led to a rise in the incidence of parasitic infections. The typical profile of travelers has also changed, with an increase in immunosuppressed persons, and those of advanced age or with pre-existing medical conditions. Immigrants who have settled in host countries often return to their countries of origin to visit friends and relatives, and these travelers are at a higher risk of acquiring certain infections. Immigrants may be blood or organ donors, and transmission of exotic infections may occur. This review summarizes the management of the most frequent parasitic infections at a time when clinical parasitology is of considerable interest.