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[Cutaneous gnathostomiasis, first confirmed case in Colombia]
Leonardo F Jurado1, Diana M Palacios2, Rocío López3
1Departamento de Patología y Laboratorios, Hospital Universitario Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Bogotá, D.C, Colombia.
Biomedica : Revista Del Instituto Nacional De Salud
|February 5, 2016
Summary
This case report details the first confirmed imported case of gnathostomiasis in Colombia. The parasitic infection, Gnathostoma spinigerum, was identified in a traveler with gastrointestinal symptoms and a skin lesion.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Tropical Medicine
Background:
- Gnathostomiasis is a parasitic zoonosis caused by Gnathostoma species, presenting diverse clinical manifestations and diagnostic challenges.
- Endemic in tropical/subtropical regions, transmission occurs via consumption of raw/undercooked freshwater animal meat.
- Global travel and exotic food consumption are increasing gnathostomiasis incidence worldwide.
Observation:
- A 63-year-old Colombian male with international travel history presented with gastrointestinal issues.
- A cutaneous lesion developed on his upper right abdomen during hospitalization.
- A larva extracted from the lesion was morphologically identified as Gnathostoma spinigerum.
Findings:
- This case represents the first confirmed imported gnathostomiasis diagnosis in Colombia.
- Morphological identification confirmed the causative agent as Gnathostoma spinigerum.
- The patient's presentation included gastrointestinal symptoms and a characteristic cutaneous lesion.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering imported parasitic infections in non-endemic regions.
- Emphasizes the need for heightened awareness and diagnostic preparedness for gnathostomiasis in Colombia.
- Underscores the role of travel history in diagnosing rare zoonotic diseases.
