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Imported cutaneous gnathostomiasis: report of five cases
A Ménard1, G Dos Santos, P Dekumyoy
1Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Hôpital Nord, Marseille, France.
Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|October 31, 2003
Summary
Gnathostomiasis, a rare parasitic infection, presents with skin lesions in travelers returning from Southeast Asia. Early diagnosis and prolonged albendazole treatment are crucial for managing this condition.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Tropical Medicine
- Dermatology
Background:
- Gnathostomiasis is infrequently diagnosed outside its endemic regions.
- This study focuses on imported cases presenting in a non-endemic country.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe clinical presentations and diagnostic challenges of cutaneous gnathostomiasis in travelers.
- To highlight treatment outcomes and the importance of prolonged follow-up.
Main Methods:
- Case series of 5 patients returning from Southeast Asia with suspected gnathostomiasis.
- Clinical examination, serological testing (including seroconversion), and biopsy for parasite identification.
- Treatment with albendazole and monitoring for recurrence.
Main Results:
- Patients presented with creeping eruptions or migratory swellings, often accompanied by asthenia and hepatitis.
- Diagnosis relied on serology and parasite identification, with initial serology sometimes negative.
- Recurrences were observed up to 24 months post-treatment, necessitating extended follow-up.
Conclusions:
- Cutaneous gnathostomiasis should be suspected in travelers from endemic areas with unexplained migratory skin lesions.
- Repeated serological testing is important for diagnosis due to potential initial negativity.
- Effective treatment may require multiple albendazole courses and long-term monitoring for cure.