Letter: Turn of the worm

From Kathryn Maddison

I was intrigued by the use of helminthic parasites to treat autoimmune diseases (6 August, p 6), as some years ago I was infected with hookworm in Vietnam. I was quite ill and treated in hospital on my return to the UK.

I have mild asthma which, while not too bad, is noticeable. For about a year after my “worming” I did not need asthma medication at all. My story is anecdotal I know, but it was an effect I noticed and appreciated, and one which deserves further investigation.

The editor writes:

• There is evidence that helminthic infection, particularly with hookworm, can alleviate asthma. However, some helminths pass through the lungs on the way to the gut and can temporarily worsen asthma or trigger attacks. Roundworm has been found to worsen the condition, for example. The impact of helminths on immune disorders of the respiratory tract is less well studied than on those of the intestines, though.

Edinburgh, UK