Travel-associated cutaneous larva migrans: Clinical recognition and management of an imported case in Albania

Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM) is a parasitic skin infestation typically caused by animal hookworm larvae, most often Ancylostoma braziliense and Ancylostoma caninum. The disease is an erythematous, serpiginous, pruritic, cutaneous eruption caused by accidental percutaneous penetration and subsequent migration of larvae. It is commonly reported in tropical or subtropical regions but may appear elsewhere through international travel. We describe the case of a female traveller who developed a serpiginous, pruritic lesion on her foot after exposure to river water while visiting Oman. The diagnosis of CLM was made clinically in Albania based on the typical morphology and travel history. The patient responded completely to a short course of albendazole. This case highlights the diagnostic value of recognizing characteristic skin lesions in returning travelers and the importance of early treatment to prevent complications. To our knowledge, no dermatologic lesion identified as CLM has been reported previously in Albania.