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Paragonimiasis. Atypical appearances in two adolescent Asian refugees
American Journal of Diseases of Children (1960)
|September 1, 1982
Summary
Paragonimiasis, a parasitic lung infection, can present unusually in immigrants. Physicians must recognize diverse symptoms, including abdominal pain and lung cavitation, for timely diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Paragonimiasis is a parasitic disease prevalent in Asia, Africa, and South America.
- Rising immigration from Southeast Asia necessitates increased physician awareness of paragonimiasis in the US.
Observation:
- Two adolescent Asian refugees presented with atypical manifestations of paragonimiasis.
- One case involved acute abdominal pain, mimicking appendicitis.
- The other case presented as asymptomatic left upper-lobe cavitation on imaging.
Findings:
- Atypical presentations of paragonimiasis can include gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Pulmonary paragonimiasis may be asymptomatic and discovered incidentally.
- Diagnostic awareness is crucial for non-classic presentations.
Implications:
- Physicians should consider paragonimiasis in patients with relevant travel history and unusual symptoms.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of paragonimiasis can prevent severe complications.
- Enhanced surveillance and education are needed for emerging infectious diseases in immigrant populations.