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Bacterial superinfection in human tungiasis.
H Feldmeier1, J Heukelbach, M Eisele
1Institute of Social Medicine, Center for Humanities and Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Free University of Berlin, Germany. feldmeier.fuberlin@t-online.de
Tropical Medicine & International Health : TM & IH
|July 9, 2002
Summary
Secondary bacterial infections are common in tungiasis, a parasitic skin disease caused by the Tunga penetrans flea. This study identified Staphylococcus aureus and Enterobacteriaceae as frequent pathogens, highlighting the need for prompt parasite removal.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Tungiasis, caused by the sand flea Tunga penetrans, is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions.
- Secondary bacterial superinfections are frequently observed in tungiasis lesions.
- Systematic investigation into the specific bacterial pathogens involved in tungiasis is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively investigate the frequency and patterns of bacterial pathogens associated with tungiasis.
- To identify common aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms colonizing tungiasis lesions.
Main Methods:
- A prospective clinico-bacteriological study was conducted in hyperendemic Fortaleza, Brazil.
- Swabs were collected from 78 patients with multiple tungiasis lesions post-parasite extraction.
- Aerobic and anaerobic cultures were performed to identify bacterial pathogens.
Main Results:
- 146 aerobic pathogens were identified from 99 specimens, with Staphylococcus aureus (35.5%) and Enterobacteriaceae (29.5%) being most common.
- Other isolated aerobic bacteria included Bacillus sp., Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Pseudomonas sp.
- 20 anaerobic pathogens were isolated, including Peptostreptococcus sp. and Clostridium sp.
Conclusions:
- Secondary bacterial infections are highly prevalent in tungiasis, involving various pathogenic microorganisms.
- Tunga penetrans may act as a foreign body, promoting bacterial biofilm formation within the epidermis.
- Surgical extraction of the sand flea is recommended to prevent pathogen spread.