[Cutaneous larva migrans]

Cutaneous larva migrans is the most frequent parasitic tropical dermatosis imported by travelers returning from tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Epidemiologically, this skin condition is predominantly acquired during beach stays, with high-risk areas including Southeast Asia, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. The underlying cause is an infection with animal hookworm larvae, most commonly Ancylostoma braziliense, which are shed in the feces of infected dogs and cats. Because humans act as accidental hosts, the larvae penetrate the epidermis but are unable to mature into adult worms or migrate into deeper tissues. The clinical presentation typically features an intensely pruritic, raised, erythematous, and serpiginous creeping track, which is most commonly located on the feet. In clinical practice, the guideline-recommended treatment consists of systemic anthelmintic therapy, primarily utilizing a single oral dose of ivermectin or a 3-day course of oral albendazole. Alternatively, topical treatments such as a thiabendazole ointment 10% can be applied locally.