Duodenal hookworm (Ancylostoma duodenale ) is a human parasite of the nematode type. An adult individual is less than 2 cm long and has a light pink body. He lives in the duodenum. Infection occurs by swallowing the egg present in water or on unwashed fruits and vegetables. The larvae can drill through the skin into blood vessels, e.g. through the skin of the feet of barefoot people. Duodenal hookworm feeds on duodenal epithelium and blood sucked out of the duodenal walls. Infections cause anemia and disease called ancylostomosis. Prolonged infection by numerous parasites may lead to death. Ancylostoma duodenale occurs in the subtropical regions, very rarely in southern Europe.