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Updated: Jun 21, 2026
13:55
Sexual Transmission of American Trypanosomes from Males and Females to Naive Mates
Published on: January 27, 2019
[Tungiasis affects a chilean turist]
Cristian Vergara M1, Elizabeth Barthel M, Eduardo Labarca M
1Departamento de Medicina Interna, Escuela de Medicina Dirección de PostGrado y Post Título, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Valparaíso, Santiago, Chile. vergaravalpo@gmail.com
Summary
Tungiasis, a skin infection caused by the Tunga penetrans flea, is presented in a Chilean traveler returning from Brazil. Diagnosis was confirmed via biopsy, revealing the flea and an egg.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Parasitology
- Tropical Medicine
Background:
- Tungiasis is a parasitic skin disease caused by the female sand flea, Tunga penetrans.
- It is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, including Sub-Saharan Africa, South America, and the Caribbean.
Observation:
- A case report details a 23-year-old Chilean male presenting with dermal lesions after traveling to Brazil.
- Clinical presentation suggested tungiasis, a condition rarely seen in non-endemic areas.
Findings:
- Diagnostic biopsy confirmed tungiasis, identifying the Tunga penetrans flea and an embedded egg within the skin lesions.
- Microscopic examination revealed characteristic features of the parasitic infestation.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering tungiasis in travelers returning from endemic areas.
- Reviewing natural history, comorbidities, and treatment options is crucial for managing this neglected tropical disease.
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