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Gnathostomiasis externa: a case report.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|September 1, 1986
Summary
This case report details a rare instance of cutaneous larva migrans caused by Gnathostoma spinigerum. The nematode was surgically removed, marking the first documented case in the upper extremity in the Western Hemisphere.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Tropical Medicine
- Dermatology
Background:
- Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) is a skin disease caused by the larval stage of various nematodes.
- Gnathostomiasis is a zoonotic infection caused by Gnathostoma species, typically found in Asia.
- Subcutaneous gnathostomiasis is a rare manifestation of this parasitic infection.
Observation:
- A case of CLM caused by Gnathostoma spinigerum is presented.
- The causative worm was visualized during surgical intervention.
- The nematode was successfully removed from the affected tissue.
Findings:
- This represents the second documented case of subcutaneous gnathostomiasis in the Western Hemisphere.
- It is the first reported case of this condition occurring in the upper extremity.
- Successful surgical excision of the nematode was achieved.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for Gnathostoma spinigerum to cause CLM in previously undocumented regions.
- Emphasizes the importance of considering parasitic infections in differential diagnoses of dermatological conditions.
- Demonstrates the efficacy of surgical removal for treating localized subcutaneous gnathostomiasis.