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Macracanthorhynchus ingens from a child in Texas
The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
|September 1, 1985
Summary
Nine specimens of Macracanthorhynchus ingens, an intestinal parasite typically found in raccoons, were recovered from a 10-month-old child over two months. This case highlights a rare human infection with this parasite.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Human Infectious Diseases
- Zoonotic Parasites
Background:
- Acanthocephala are parasitic worms with complex life cycles often involving arthropods and vertebrates.
- Macracanthorhynchus ingens is a species of thorny-headed worm primarily documented in raccoons (Procyon lotor).
- Human infections with acanthocephalans are rare, with limited case reports in medical literature.
Observation:
- Nine acanthocephalan worms were recovered from the fecal samples of a 10-month-old infant.
- The recovery occurred over a two-month period in Texas.
- Morphological identification confirmed the parasites as Macracanthorhynchus ingens.
Findings:
- The study identified a rare case of human infection with Macracanthorhynchus ingens.
- This finding suggests potential zoonotic transmission routes from raccoons to humans, even in young children.
- The parasite, typically a raccoon intestinal parasite, was found in a human host.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering zoonotic parasites in pediatric gastrointestinal infections, especially in endemic areas.
- Further research into the transmission dynamics and potential public health significance of Macracanthorhynchus ingens in humans is warranted.
- Clinicians should be aware of rare parasitic infections that can occur in children, necessitating thorough diagnostic workups for unexplained symptoms.