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Detection of Extravascular Trypanosoma Parasites by Fine Needle Aspiration
08:33

Detection of Extravascular Trypanosoma Parasites by Fine Needle Aspiration

Published on: August 7, 2019

[Filarial infestation in patients emanating from endemic area. 14 cases series presentation]

M Rivera Cuello1, E Núñez Cuadros, A Medina Claros

  • 1Unidad de Pediatría Tropical, Servicio de Pediatría, Hospital Carlos III, Madrid, España. ronijerez@hotmail.com

Anales De Pediatria (Barcelona, Spain : 2003)
|July 31, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Filariosis in children, though rare, requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. Early screening of pediatric patients from endemic areas is crucial for preventing severe complications like blindness and interrupting disease transmission.

Area of Science:

  • Tropical medicine
  • Pediatric infectious diseases
  • Parasitology

Context:

  • Migration patterns facilitate the emergence of novel infectious diseases.
  • Filariosis presents unique challenges in pediatric cases due to its peculiar biological cycle.
  • This study reviews filariosis cases diagnosed in a specialized Tropical Pediatrics Diseases Unit.

Purpose:

  • To review clinical-epidemiological, therapeutic, and evolutionary characteristics of filariosis in pediatric patients.
  • To analyze diagnosed filariosis cases in children over a 12-year period.
  • To highlight the importance of early diagnosis and screening for filariosis in children.

Summary:

  • A retrospective analysis of 14 pediatric filariosis cases (1995-2007) from Equatorial Guinea revealed common species like *O. volvulus*, *M. perstans*, and *Loa-loa*.
  • Pruritus and eosinophilia were prevalent symptoms, with co-parasitation occurring in 85% of cases. Diagnosis involved biopsy, microfilaremia detection, visualization, and serology.
  • Treatment varied by species, including Mebendazole, Ivermectin, and Diethylcarbamazine, with successful outcomes in followed-up cases.

Impact:

  • Highlights the necessity of filariosis screening for children from endemic regions, particularly those with eosinophilia.
  • Emphasizes that early childhood diagnosis, despite challenges, aids in preventing severe sequelae such as blindness.
  • Underscores the role of timely diagnosis in breaking the parasite's life cycle and preventing disease progression.

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