**Core Concept**
Mebendazole is a benzimidazole antiparasitic drug used to treat various types of worm infestations, including hookworms, roundworms, and whipworms. It works by inhibiting tubulin polymerization, disrupting microtubule function in the parasite's intestinal cells, and ultimately causing the parasite's death.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Mebendazole is effective against a wide range of nematodes, but its use is contraindicated in cases of strongyloidiasis caused by Strongyloides stercoralis. This is because mebendazole can paradoxically induce the autoinfection cycle of Strongyloides, leading to a potentially life-threatening hyperinfection syndrome.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Incorrect, as mebendazole is used to treat hookworm infestations caused by Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus.
**Option B:** Incorrect, as mebendazole is used to treat roundworm infestations caused by Ascaris lumbricoides.
**Option C:** Incorrect, as mebendazole is used to treat whipworm infestations caused by Trichuris trichiura.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to note that mebendazole is not the first-line treatment for strongyloidiasis and should be avoided in such cases. Instead, ivermectin is the preferred treatment for strongyloidiasis, especially in immunocompromised patients.
**Correct Answer: D.**
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
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