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Acute life-threatening toxocaral tamponade
I Herry1, B Philippe, C Hennequin
1Service de Pneumologie, Hôpital Laennec, Paris, France.
Chest
|December 24, 1997
Summary
Visceral larva migrans, a Toxocara infection, can cause life-threatening symptoms like heart and lung issues. Early diagnosis is crucial, especially in children, to prevent severe outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Internal Medicine
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Visceral larva migrans (VLM) is a parasitic infection caused by the larval stage of nematodes, commonly Toxocara species.
- VLM can present with diverse and severe systemic manifestations, often mimicking other serious conditions.
Observation:
- A patient presented with acute dyspnea, bilateral pleural effusion, and rapidly developing pericardial tamponade.
- Elevated blood and body fluid eosinophilia were noted, with extensive investigations ruling out malignancy and vasculitis.
Findings:
- Toxocara infection was confirmed through rising specific antibody titers.
- The case highlights an unusual presentation of visceral larva migrans (toxocariasis).
Implications:
- The high seroprevalence of Toxocara antibodies warrants considering VLM before diagnosing systemic hypereosinophilic syndrome, even with atypical presentations.
- Prophylaxis against this zoonotic infection is recommended due to its potentially severe consequences.