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Human Gongylonema infection in Iran.
G H Molavi1, J Massoud, Y Gutierrez
1Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health and Health Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. molavig@yahoo.com
Journal of Helminthology
|November 28, 2006
Summary
The first human Gongylonema infection in Iran was documented in a woman misdiagnosed with psychosis. Morphological analysis confirmed the worms as Gongylonema pulchrum.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Human Health
Background:
- Gongylonema pulchrum is a nematode known to infect various animals.
- Human infections are rare and often asymptomatic or present with vague symptoms.
- Previous Gongylonema infections in humans have been reported globally, but not previously in Iran.
Observation:
- A 35-year-old Iranian woman presented with a year-long history of unexplained symptoms.
- She was initially misdiagnosed and treated for a psychotic disorder.
- Two Gongylonema worms (one male, one female) were successfully retrieved.
Findings:
- Morphological analysis confirmed the retrieved worms as Gongylonema pulchrum.
- This represents the first documented human case of Gongylonema infection in Iran.
- The patient's symptoms were attributed to the parasitic infection.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering parasitic infections in differential diagnoses, even with atypical presentations.
- It highlights the need for increased awareness among clinicians regarding Gongylonema in human medicine.
- Further research is warranted to understand the epidemiology and transmission dynamics of Gongylonema in the region.
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