[Toxocariasis in childhood. Visceral larva migrans syndrome (author's transl)]

A case of toxocariasis in a 2(6)/12 years old boy is described. The visceral larva migrans syndrome usually is seen in preschool children. Clinical symptoms were characterised by eosinophilia of more than 30%, leukocytosis, hepatomegaly, pulmonary infiltrations, and hypergammaglobulinaemia. There may be myocardial, ocular or central nervous system involvement, and a few affected children have died. The disease is caused by invasion of the body tissues by Toxocara canis or cati larvae, often ingested by contaminated dirt. The developmental cycle and the migration of the Toxocara larvae in the human host is discussed. Diagnosis can usually be made by clinical and serological investigations. The microprecipitation test on living larvae of Toxocara canis is highly specific for the diagnosis. There is no effective specific therapy for toxocariasis, however, treatment with thiabendazole and diethylcarbamazine may be helpful. Primary prevention of visceral larva migrans syndrome can be achieved by reduction of the children exposure to infected animals and contaminated environments, or by elimination of infections in dogs, puppies, and cats.