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[Human infection with Gongylonema pulchrum]
T Urch1, B C Albrecht, D W Büttner
1Praxis für Allgemeinmedizin, Wilster.
Deutsche Medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
|November 8, 2005
Summary
A rare case of oral Gongylonema pulchrum infection presented with unusual sensations. Prompt diagnosis and removal of the nematode resolved the patient's symptoms, highlighting the importance of thorough parasitic investigation.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Human Nematology
Background:
- Gongylonema pulchrum, a spirurid nematode, typically infects the upper digestive tract of animals.
- Human infections are rare, often presenting with vague oral symptoms that can mimic other conditions.
Observation:
- A 27-year-old woman reported persistent sensations of movement in her buccal mucosa.
- Initial examinations revealed no abnormalities, but the patient later self-extracted a filiform structure.
- Microscopic analysis identified the structure as a gravid female Gongylonema nematode.
Findings:
- The diagnosis was confirmed as Gongylonema pulchrum infection.
- A second worm was surgically removed from the contralateral buccal mucosa.
- Symptomatic relief was achieved post-removal without further treatment.
Implications:
- Unusual oral symptoms warrant careful investigation to rule out parasitic infections, even when seemingly improbable.
- Dermatozoic delusion should be considered, but parasitic etiology must be excluded through appropriate diagnostic measures.
- Consultation with specialized laboratories is crucial for accurate identification of rare parasitic agents.