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Published on: January 27, 2019
Human pseudoterranovosis, an emerging infection in Chile
P Torres1, M I Jercic, J C Weitz
1Instituto de Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Isla Teja, Casilla 567, Valdivia, Chile. ptorres@uach.cl
The Journal of Parasitology
|June 2, 2007
Summary
Human pseudoterranovosis, a parasitic infection from nematode larvae, is emerging in Chile. Most cases stem from eating raw or fried marine fish, with an outbreak linked to cebiche.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Marine Biology
Background:
- Human pseudoterranovosis is an emerging parasitic infection caused by Pseudoterranova sp. nematode larvae.
- Chile is experiencing an increase in reported cases, indicating a growing public health concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report fifteen cases of human pseudoterranovosis in Chile.
- To identify the sources and transmission patterns of this parasitic infection.
Main Methods:
- Case reporting and clinical observation.
- Identification of parasite larvae from affected patients.
- Analysis of patient dietary habits and fish consumption.
Main Results:
- Fifteen cases of human pseudoterranovosis were documented in Chile.
- An outbreak occurred in individuals consuming raw fish cebiche.
- Infection sources included hakes, pomfret, Inca scad, and corvina.
- Most cases involved adult patients, with infections occurring in fall and spring.
Conclusions:
- Consumption of raw or undercooked marine fish is the primary transmission route for human pseudoterranovosis in Chile.
- Pseudoterranova sp. larvae pose an emerging parasitic threat in the region.
- Public awareness regarding safe fish consumption practices is crucial.
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