The treatment of autoimmune diseases (AD) continues to be a serious problem for modern immunology. Existing methods do not guarantee full recovery, and even do not always allow to successfully monitor the patient’s condition, which encourages doctors to look for new and more effective ways of immunotherapy.
One of the experimental, but rather promising areas of AD treatment is helminth therapy — the deliberate infection of the patient’s body with parasitic worms (helminths) in order to correct the immune system. In this article, we will cover in detail what this type of therapy is and whether it will be a salvation for patients with AD.
1. Is it Dangerous to Infect an Ill Person with Worms?
Over the past couple of decades, parasitology has made a significant breakthrough by developing drugs effective against helminths that previously could be removed only surgically. For example, in the last century wuchereriosis (infection with Wuchereria bancrofti filariae) was perceived almost as a sentence of lifelong disability due to developing lymphostasis. Today, you can freely buy stromectol for humans and say goodbye to this disease within a few days.
In other words, the infection of the patient with helminths is not irreversible — which, in fact, made it possible to consider certain parasites as an actual cure.
In addition, it should be mentioned that most helminths are aimed at long—term residence in the body of the host, but not at killing it in any way – which would inevitably lead to the death of the parasites themselves. This feature of helminths’ vital activity determines the controlled nature of their reproduction (unlike pathogenic viruses) and the relatively moderate harm caused in the medium term to internal organs and metabolic processes.
2. How Exactly Are Parasites Used to Treat AD?
Once in the human body, some types of helminths secrete a special secretory fluid containing specific amino acid compounds that inhibit the immune system — that is, they do what patients with AD need.
It should be noted that the described mechanism is just a working hypothesis and is at the stage of clinical research.
3. What is the Advantage of Helminthic Therapy AD?
The organic origin of the parasitic secretion significantly reduces the risk of side effects, as it happens with immunosuppressant treatment.
In addition, helminths themselves control the daily volume of their own secret, since, as mentioned above, they do not intend to specifically kill their host.
4. What Diseases Do Helminths Help Treat?
To date, the effectiveness of treatment with helminths of lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease (gluten intolerance), asthma, type I diabetes mellitus, ulcerative colitis, psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis is being studied.
Stay Informed
Remember that helminthic therapy refers to experimental types of treatment and can only be carried out under strict supervision of a doctor. Independent infection with parasites is unacceptable under any circumstances!
Read Also
- The Role of Ingredients in Your Skincare: What to Look For
Skincare works best when you understand what goes into the products you use daily. Ingredients form the foundation of every formula and determine how the skin reacts over time. Each cream, cleanser, or serum has its own role, determined by its ingredients. Learning what to look for helps you pick products that help skin and… Read more: The Role of Ingredients in Your Skincare: What to Look For - Your Guide to Finding a Trusted DentistChoosing the right dentist in Sandgate or your area is crucial for maintaining good oral health and achieving a confident smile. With countless dental practices to choose from, patients may find the task daunting. Data from the American Dental Association indicates that there are over 200,000 practicing dentists in the United States, highlighting the importance… Read more: Your Guide to Finding a Trusted Dentist
- Achieving a Defined, Balanced Facial Contour in SingaporeA well-defined jawline and a gently tapered lower face — commonly referred to as a V-shaped face — is a look many people aspire to. In Singapore’s beauty and aesthetic scene, treatments that help refine facial contours have grown in popularity as more individuals seek subtle, natural enhancements that boost confidence and balance facial features.… Read more: Achieving a Defined, Balanced Facial Contour in Singapore
- The Wellness Blueprint: How Your DNA Holds the AnswerGenetic testing is revolutionizing preventive healthcare by offering insights into individual health risks. By analyzing DNA, these tests provide a personalized health blueprint that can guide lifestyle and medical decisions. This approach, often referred to as DNA wellness testing, helps to optimize health naturally and prevent potential diseases. In recent years, genetic testing has become… Read more: The Wellness Blueprint: How Your DNA Holds the Answer
- Exploring the Benefits of Infusion Therapy in OKC: The Ultimate GuideUnderstanding Infusion Therapy: A Deep Dive into Its Purpose and Process What exactly is Infusion Therapy? Infusion therapy is an advanced medical treatment that delivers medication and nutrients directly into the bloodstream through a vein, typically via an IV (intravenous) line. This method is particularly beneficial for patients who require a concentrated dose of medication,… Read more: Exploring the Benefits of Infusion Therapy in OKC: The Ultimate Guide
- Ketamine-Assisted Therapies: Impacts on Employee WellbeingWorkplace stress is common today. Many employees feel tired, anxious, or burned out. Regular therapy can help, but some people need more support. Ketamine-assisted therapy is showing good results for mental health. A ketamine-assisted therapist guides each session safely. This therapy can improve mood, focus, and energy. Learning more about it can help teams stay… Read more: Ketamine-Assisted Therapies: Impacts on Employee Wellbeing
