Cutaneous larva migrans: A case report successfully treated with albendazole. (December 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Neupane, Sandhya kiran; Shah, Sandesh; Neupane, Prabhat Kiran; Paudel Jaishi, Prakash
• Is Part Of: Annals of medicine and surgery. Volume 84(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-12
• Subjects: Cutaneous larva migrans; Surgery -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; General Surgery -- Periodicals; Education, Medical -- Periodicals; Periodicals; 617
• DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2022.104904
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2049-0801

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) is helminthic infection that is mostly found in tropical and subtropical areas [1]. It is commonly seen with those who have contact with soil that is contaminated by cat and dog's hookworm larvae. CLM present as erythematous, serpiginous, pruritic cutaneous eruption that is caused by accidental percutaneous penetration and subsequent migration of larvae Case: We present a case of 45 year old male with erythematous, serpiginous, pruritic eruption over the dorsum of foot. Clinical findings and investigations: Patient had a 2–3 cm linear, erythematous, serpiginous localized lesion characteristic of a papular tip on the dorsal surface of the right foot. Total and differential blood counts, peripheral blood smear and chest x-ray were sent for investigations. Intervention and outcome: Patient was prescribed Albendazole at a dose of 400mg, once a day for seven days. After treatment, the lesion and pruritus had regressed significantly. Conclusion: Hookworm-related CLM is diagnosed clinically based on the typical clinical presentation (skin findings). Clinicians should be aware of the possibility of hookworm-related CLM with history of travel to tropical areas, specially walking barefoot. Highlights: Cutaneous larva migrans is uncommon parasitic infection usually caused by filariform larvae of dogs or cat hook worms. CLM present as erythematous, serpiginous and pruritic cutaneous eruption. CLM is caused by accidental percutaneous penetration and subsequent migration of larvae. Most of the people become infected by walking barefoot, wearing open-toe shoes.