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[Toxocariasis - an underestimated problem in paediatrics]

Kamil Hozyasz1, Andrzej Milanowski

  • 1Klinika Pediatrii, Instytut Matki i Dziecka, ul. Kasprzaka 17a, Warszawa, Poland. khozyasz@alpha.net.pl

Medycyna Wieku Rozwojowego
|November 12, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Human toxocariasis, a parasitic infection from pet roundworms, is common in children due to environmental contamination. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing this widespread zoonotic disease.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Parasitology
  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Environmental Health

Background:

  • Human toxocariasis results from infection with zoonotic roundworms (Toxocara spp.) found in dogs and cats.
  • Widespread environmental contamination with Toxocara eggs, particularly in children's play areas, poses a significant public health risk.
  • Seroprevalence rates in children vary regionally, with higher rates observed in South-East Poland (19%) compared to West Poland (3.5%).

Observation:

  • Children are at higher risk due to close contact with contaminated soil and geophagia.
  • A case of covert toxocariasis in a 3-year-old girl presented without classic symptoms, highlighting diagnostic challenges.
  • Initial blood work revealed significant leukocytosis (43x10(3)/mm3) and hyperosinophilia (81%).

Findings:

  • The patient was treated with albendazole, with repeated treatment after one year.
  • Long-term follow-up (1.5 years) showed persistently positive serological tests for Toxocara canis.
  • Blood counts improved but remained elevated (lowest 20.0x10(3)/mm3) with persistent eosinophilia (19%).

Implications:

  • Covert toxocariasis can manifest without typical visceral, ocular, or neurological signs, necessitating broader diagnostic considerations.
  • Persistent eosinophilia in toxocariasis may be linked to the development of allergic and cardiovascular diseases.
  • Effective treatment and monitoring are essential for managing toxocariasis and understanding its long-term health impacts.

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