Case Report: Human Subcutaneous Sparganosis in a Thai Migrant

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Infectious Diseases
• Tropical Medicine

Background:

• Human sparganosis is a neglected cestode infection caused by Spirometra species.
• Diagnosis and treatment can be complex due to varied clinical presentations and locations.
• Commonly presents as subcutaneous nodules or intracranial masses.

Observation:

• Infection typically occurs through consumption of undercooked amphibian/reptile flesh or contaminated water.
• This report details an atypical case in a Thai woman residing in Switzerland.
• The patient presented with two nonmigratory subcutaneous nodules on her right thigh.

Findings:

• The case involved Spirometra erinaceieuropaei, a less common cause of sparganosis.
• The presentation of dual, adjacent nodules on the thigh is unusual.
• This case underscores the importance of considering sparganosis in non-endemic regions.

Implications:

• Highlights the need for increased awareness of sparganosis in non-endemic regions.
• Suggests that subcutaneous sparganosis may present with varied morphology.
• Emphasizes the importance of considering parasitic infections in differential diagnoses for unexplained nodules.