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Human lagochilascariasis treated successfully with ivermectin: a case report
R F Bento1, C do C Mazza, E F Motti
1University of São Paulo School of Medicine, Brasil.
Summary
A 15-year-old patient with Lagochilascaris minor infection showed improvement with ivermectin. This treatment led to a sustained 15-month remission, suggesting a potential cure for this rare nematode infection.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Lagochilascaris minor is a rare nematode causing infections, often presenting with abscesses.
- This case involves a 15-year-old male with mastoid and potential central nervous system (CNS) involvement.
Observation:
- The patient presented with abscesses in the left mastoid region, with invasion of the temporal bone, mastoid sinuses, and possible CNS spread.
- Initial treatment with surgical drainage, cambendazole, and levamisole resulted in temporary improvement but was followed by relapse and poor drug tolerance.
Findings:
- Ivermectin, an antiparasitic drug typically used in veterinary medicine, was administered in repeated doses for the first time in this human case.
- Complete remission of infection signs was achieved and maintained for 15 months post-treatment, indicating successful disease eradication.
Implications:
- Ivermectin represents a novel and effective therapeutic option for severe human Lagochilascaris minor infections, particularly when conventional treatments fail.
- This case highlights the potential of repurposed veterinary drugs in treating challenging human parasitic diseases.
- Further research is warranted to establish optimal dosing and long-term efficacy of ivermectin for human lagochilascariasis.