[Migratory vulvitis caused by imported gnathostomiasis]

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Infectious Diseases
• Dermatology

Background:

• Gnathostomiasis is a zoonotic parasitic infection caused by Gnathostoma species nematodes.
• The parasite's life cycle involves aquatic freshwater environments and fish as intermediate hosts.
• It is an emerging disease in non-endemic regions, posing a growing public health concern.

Observation:

• The study describes a patient presenting with a migratory subcutaneous lesion.
• The lesion showed no improvement with standard antimicrobial therapy.
• A detailed travel and dietary history was crucial for diagnosis.

Findings:

• The patient's migratory lesion was diagnosed as gnathostomiasis.
• Diagnosis was confirmed through specific laboratory tests.
• The case highlights the importance of considering travel and food history.

Implications:

• Gnathostomiasis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of migratory skin lesions.
• Clinicians should inquire about travel to endemic areas (South America, Asia) and consumption of raw freshwater fish.
• Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate patient management and preventing complications.