[Paragonimiasis].

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Infectious Diseases
• Medical Helminthology

Context:

• Paragonimiasis is a zoonotic helminthic disease primarily affecting carnivorous animals, with accidental human infections occurring globally.
• Endemic areas are concentrated in Southeast Asia (notably Korea), but cases are also reported in Africa and South America.
• While pleuropulmonary manifestations are most common, cerebral paragonimiasis is also a significant concern.

Purpose:

• To provide an overview of paragonimiasis, including its epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, and treatment.
• To highlight the diagnostic challenges posed by symptoms mimicking tuberculosis.
• To summarize recent advancements in imaging techniques for investigating cerebral and lung involvement.

Summary:

• Paragonimiasis presents with pleuropulmonary symptoms such as hemoptysis, pleural effusions, and pulmonary infiltrates/cavities, often mimicking tuberculosis.
• Cerebral involvement is also noted, with both neurological and lung manifestations being investigated using CT-scan and NMR.
• Diagnosis relies on detecting parasite eggs in sputum or feces and confirmed by ELISA serology.
• The recommended treatment for paragonimiasis is praziquantel.

Impact:

• Enhances understanding of a neglected tropical disease with significant public health implications in endemic regions.
• Facilitates accurate diagnosis by differentiating paragonimiasis from other conditions like tuberculosis.
• Informs clinical management and treatment strategies, emphasizing praziquantel as the drug of choice.