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Pelodera strongyloides infestation presenting as pruritic dermatitis
Akio Tanaka1, Maiko Kinoshita, Toshihiko Tanaka
1Department of Dermatology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Hiroshima University, Japan. akiotan@hiroshima-u.ac.jp
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
|December 4, 2004
Summary
A rare skin infestation caused by the soil nematode Pelodera strongyloides was effectively treated in an 18-year-old man. This case highlights the identification and successful management of Pelodera strongyloides dermatitis.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Parasitology
- Human Pathology
Background:
- Pelodera strongyloides are free-living soil nematodes belonging to the order Rhabditida.
- While typically non-pathogenic to humans, environmental factors can lead to parasitic infections.
Observation:
- An 18-year-old male presented with pruritic follicular papulopustules on his buttocks and right flank.
- Dermatological examination revealed skin lesions consistent with nematode infestation.
Findings:
- Skin scrapings confirmed the presence of numerous live rhabditiform larvae.
- Larvae were cultured into adult worms and hatched ova, definitively identifying the causative agent as Pelodera strongyloides.
- The patient's eruption was successfully treated with topical 1% gamma-hexachlorocyclohexane ointment.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for free-living nematodes like Pelodera strongyloides to cause cutaneous infestations in humans.
- Accurate identification of the nematode through diagnostic methods is crucial for effective treatment.
- Topical gamma-hexachlorocyclohexane demonstrates efficacy in managing Pelodera strongyloides-induced dermatitis.