Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 29, 2026
08:38
A Strategy for the Study of IL-9-Producing Lymphoid Cells in the Nippostrongylus brasiliensis Infection Model
Published on: March 3, 2023
Mini review: Hookworm-related cutaneous larva migrans
1Institute of Microbiology and Hygiene, Charité University Medicine, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 27, 12203, Berlin, Germany. hermann.feldmeier@charite.de
Summary
Hookworm-related cutaneous larva migrans (HrCLM) is a parasitic skin infection caused by animal hookworm larvae. While typically self-limiting, prompt treatment with ivermectin or albendazole is recommended to prevent persistent skin pathology.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Hookworm-related cutaneous larva migrans (HrCLM) is a parasitic skin disease caused by animal hookworm larvae migrating in the epidermis.
- Larvae remain confined to the epidermis, making HrCLM a self-limiting condition, but it can persist for months if untreated.
- The disease is endemic in resource-poor regions and occurs sporadically in high-income countries, primarily in travelers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of hookworm-related cutaneous larva migrans.
- To highlight the importance of considering travel history in diagnosis.
- To provide guidance on effective therapeutic interventions.
Main Methods:
- Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by patient history of travel and potential exposure.
- Identification of characteristic erythematous, serpiginous tracks with intense itching.
- Assessment of potential for secondary bacterial infection due to excoriations.
Main Results:
- The initial sign is a reddish papule, progressing to visible, elevated tracks.
- Intense itching is a hallmark symptom, often leading to scratching and secondary infections.
- Clinical diagnosis is reliable, especially with relevant travel history.
Conclusions:
- Ivermectin is the drug of choice for HrCLM, administered in a single dose (200 μg/kg).
- Albendazole (400 mg daily) is an effective alternative treatment, particularly where ivermectin is unavailable.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent prolonged skin pathology and complications.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Leishmaniasis
Leishmaniasis is a protozoal disease caused by species of the genus Leishmania and transmitted through the bite of infected female sandflies. The parasite exists in two principal morphological forms during its life cycle. A sandfly acquires intracellular amastigotes from an infected reservoir host, such as a dog. Within the sandfly, these forms differentiate into motile, flagellated promastigotes. During a subsequent blood meal, promastigotes are injected into the human host, where they...
01:28Fungal Phylum Microsporidia
Microsporidia are a group of obligate intracellular fungi that were initially classified as protists but were later reclassified based on phylogenetic, molecular, and structural evidence linking them to the Chytridiomycota. These unicellular, non-motile organisms are highly specialized parasites that infect a wide range of animal hosts, including humans. They have evolved extensive genomic and metabolic reductions, making them highly dependent on their hosts for survival.Morphology and Genomic...