Strongyloidiasis is unique among soil-transmitted helminthiases because it can cause autoinfection, allowing the parasite to complete its lifecycle within the same host. This leads to persistent infections that may last for decades without re-exposure. Autoinfection occurs when larvae mature and reinvade the intestinal mucosa or perianal skin, perpetuating the infection. This can result in chronic disease and, in immunocompromised patients, severe hyperinfection syndrome. Unlike other helminths, this ability makes strongyloidiasis difficult to eradicate and warrants prolonged clinical monitoring.
Reference: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, Jameson et al., 20th Edition.