Cutaneous larva migrans.

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Dermatology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) is a parasitic skin disease caused by nematode larvae, primarily from Ancylostoma species.
• It is endemic in tropical/subtropical areas, characterized by pruritic, serpiginous tracks from larval migration in the epidermis.
• CLM significantly affects quality of life, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the etiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of CLM.
• To highlight the expanding geographic distribution of CLM due to global environmental and social changes.
• To emphasize the importance of recognizing CLM variants and its increasing prevalence in non-endemic regions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of CLM, focusing on parasitic causes, clinical manifestations, and epidemiological trends.
• Analysis of diagnostic approaches, including clinical evaluation and treatment options.
• Synthesis of information on preventive strategies and public health implications.

Main Results:

• CLM is caused by hookworm larvae (e.g., Ancylostoma braziliense, A. caninum) entering the skin via contaminated soil/sand.
• Clinical presentation includes intensely itchy, winding red tracks; variants like follicular and bullous forms exist.
• Diagnosis is typically clinical; oral anti-helminthics (albendazole, ivermectin) are effective treatments.

Conclusions:

• CLM is a growing public health concern with expanding geographic range due to climate change, travel, and urbanization.
• Timely diagnosis and management are crucial, especially in non-endemic regions where awareness may be limited.
• Prevention through sanitation, pet deworming, and protective footwear is vital in endemic and newly affected areas.