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Infestation from Lagochilascaris minor in Mexico
F Vargas-Ocampo1, F J Alvarado-Aleman
1Department of Dermatology, STD Clinic, Instituto Nacional de Diagnostico y Referencia, Mexico DF, Mexico.
International Journal of Dermatology
|January 1, 1997
Summary
A parasitic infection caused a neck tumor in a child in Mexico, resistant to medical and surgical treatments. The worms, identified as Lagochilascans minor, persisted despite interventions, highlighting challenges in treating neglected tropical diseases.
Area of Science:
- Tropical Medicine
- Parasitology
- Dermatology
Background:
- This case report details a rare parasitic infection in an 11-year-old girl from a rural area in Veracruz, Mexico.
- The patient lived in a tropical region with poor sanitation, predisposing to parasitic infestations.
Observation:
- A firm, tender, lobulated neck tumor measuring 5x3 cm presented with a purulent fistula.
- Microscopic examination revealed small worms identified as Lagochilascans minor within the fistula.
- Histopathology showed an inflammatory response and a deep dermal abscess containing parasite sections.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited iron-deficiency anemia but no significant eosinophilia.
- Medical treatments with thiabendazole and praziquantel, followed by surgical excision, failed to eradicate the parasite.
- Eggs, larvae, and adult worms remained present in the pus post-surgery.
Implications:
- This case underscores the challenges in treating Lagochilascariasis, particularly in resource-limited settings.
- The resistance to standard antiparasitic drugs and surgical intervention suggests potential for novel therapeutic strategies.
- Further research is needed to understand the pathogenesis and develop effective treatments for this neglected parasitic disease.