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Human trichostrongyliasis in Queensland
R E Boreham1, M J McCowan, A E Ryan
1Microbiology Department, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Qld.
Pathology
|April 1, 1995
Summary
Trichostrongylus infection, a rare zoonosis in Australia, is often overlooked. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing this parasitic infection transmitted through contaminated vegetables.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Zoonotic Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Trichostrongylus infection is a zoonosis prevalent in regions with close human-herbivore contact.
- It is infrequently reported in Australia, with limited documentation since the 1930s.
Observation:
- Five cases of Trichostrongylus infection were diagnosed between 1992 and the present, identified through fecal parasite examinations.
- Patients presented with blood eosinophilia, and some reported mild gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal discomfort and diarrhea.
- Infections were likely acquired through consuming unwashed vegetables fertilized with animal manure, with cases linked to Queensland and Victoria.
Findings:
- All five patients were successfully treated with pyrantel embonate, leading to the resolution of eosinophilia and absence of parasites in follow-up stool samples.
- The study highlights that Trichostrongylus infections may be underdiagnosed due to asymptomatic cases, mild symptoms, or confusion with hookworm infections based on egg morphology.
Implications:
- This research underscores the potential underestimation of Trichostrongylus spp. prevalence in Australia.
- Accurate differentiation from hookworm infections is vital due to differing transmission, management, and prevention strategies.
- Public health awareness and patient education on thoroughly washing uncooked vegetables are essential preventive measures.