Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of hookworm-related cutaneous larva migrans

Lancet Infect Dis. 2008 May;8(5):302-9. doi: 10.1016/S1473-3099(08)70098-7.

Abstract

Hookworm-related cutaneous larva migrans is caused by the migration of animal hookworm larvae in the human skin. The disease mainly occurs in resource-poor communities in the developing world, but it is also reported sporadically in high-income countries and in tourists who have visited the tropics. Diagnosis is made clinically in the presence of a linear serpiginous track moving forward in the skin, associated with itching and a history of exposure. Itching is typically very intense and can prevent patients from sleeping. Bacterial superinfection occurs as a result of scratching. Treatment is based on oral drugs (albendazole or ivermectin) or the topical application of tiabendazole. To control hookworm-related cutaneous larva migrans at the community level, regular treatment of dogs and cats with anthelmintic drugs is necessary, but this is seldom feasible in resource-poor settings. Animals should be banned from beaches and playgrounds. For protection at the individual level, unprotected skin should not come into contact with possibly contaminated soil.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Administration, Topical
  • Animals
  • Anthelmintics / administration & dosage
  • Anthelmintics / therapeutic use*
  • Developed Countries
  • Developing Countries
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Hookworm Infections / drug therapy
  • Hookworm Infections / epidemiology*
  • Hookworm Infections / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Larva Migrans / drug therapy
  • Larva Migrans / epidemiology*
  • Larva Migrans / pathology*
  • Seasons
  • Soil / parasitology

Substances

  • Anthelmintics
  • Soil