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Two imported cases of cutaneous larva migrans
1Department of Dermatology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul 133-791, Korea.
Abstract:
Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) is a rare serpiginous cutaneous eruption caused by accidental penetration and migration in the skin with infective larvae of nematode that normally do not have the human as their host. Although CLM has a worldwide distribution, the infection is most frequent in warmer climates. More recently, they have been increasingly imported from the tropics or subtropics by travelers. We experienced two patients who had pruritic serpiginous linear eruption in their skin for a few weeks after traveling to the endemic areas (Brazil and Thailand, respectively). After the treatment with albendazole, the skin lesions resolved with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. We report herein two cases of cutaneous larva migrans successfully treated with albendazole.
Insights
Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) is a skin infection caused by non-human nematode larvae. Albendazole effectively treated CLM in two travelers returning from endemic areas.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Dermatology
- Tropical Medicine
Background:
- Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) is a rare skin disease caused by nematode larvae not typically infecting humans.
- CLM occurs globally but is more prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions.
- Increased international travel leads to imported CLM cases in non-endemic areas.
Observation:
- Two patients presented with pruritic, serpiginous, linear skin eruptions after traveling to Brazil and Thailand.
- The skin lesions appeared a few weeks post-travel.
- Post-treatment, skin lesions resolved, leaving post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Findings:
- CLM diagnosis was confirmed in both patients.
- Successful treatment of CLM was achieved using albendazole.
- Albendazole demonstrated efficacy in resolving CLM-related skin manifestations.
Implications:
- Albendazole is an effective therapeutic option for cutaneous larva migrans.
- Physicians should consider CLM in travelers presenting with characteristic skin lesions after visiting endemic regions.
- Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and ensure resolution of CLM.