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Visceral larva migrans (toxocariasis) in Toronto
Canadian Medical Association Journal
|January 1, 1981
Summary
Visceral larva migrans, a parasitic infection, rarely affected children in Toronto between 1952-1978. This study found few cases, suggesting low risk for pediatric health in the region.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Visceral larva migrans (VLM) is a human parasitic infection typically caused by the roundworm Toxocara canis.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing VLM and preventing severe complications.
Observation:
- A retrospective review identified 18 possible or probable cases of VLM and 3 cases of ocular toxocariasis at a major pediatric hospital in Toronto between 1952 and 1978.
- Fever was the most common presenting symptom, while eosinophilia, leukocytosis, and hyperglobulinemia were frequent laboratory findings.
Findings:
- Despite a 27-year study period and a large patient referral base, the incidence of VLM in the Toronto area was found to be very low.
- The low case count suggests that VLM poses a minimal health risk to children in this specific geographic region.
Implications:
- The findings indicate a low prevalence of Toxocara canis infection in children within the Toronto area during the study period.
- Further research may be warranted to understand regional variations in VLM incidence and risk factors.