[Autochthonous cutaneous larva migrans in Chile. A case report]
Carmen G González F1, Natalia M Galilea O2, Kharla Pizarro C2
1Centro Médico SKINMED, Santiago de Chile, Chile; Unidad de Dermatología, Clínica Dávila, Santiago de Chile, Chile.
Revista Chilena De Pediatria
|October 13, 2015
Summary
Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM), a tropical dermatitis, was diagnosed in a Chilean child with no travel history. This case highlights potential local transmission of CLM in non-endemic areas.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Tropical Medicine
- Parasitology
Background:
- Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) is a common tropical dermatitis caused by nematode hookworm larvae.
- It typically presents as a pruritic, erythematous, linear plaque, often on the feet.
- Diagnosis is usually clinical, relying on lesion morphology and travel history to endemic regions.
Observation:
- A 3-year-old boy in Chile presented with a clinical presentation consistent with CLM.
- The child had direct contact with dogs but no history of international travel.
- The lesion resolved completely after a single dose of ivermectin.
Findings:
- This case represents the first report of autochthonous CLM acquired in Chile in a child.
- The findings suggest that CLM can occur in areas not traditionally considered endemic.
- Exposure to domestic animals like dogs may play a role in local transmission.
Implications:
- CLM may be underdiagnosed in non-endemic regions, particularly in children.
- This case expands the known geographical distribution of CLM.
- Further surveillance and awareness are needed to identify and manage CLM in new areas.
