CUTANEOUS LARVA

MIGRANS

BY : MOHAMEDZEI , SALWA G.
 Cutaneous larva migran

is a skin disease in humans, caused by the larvae of various

nematode parasites of the hookworm family
(Ancylostomatidae).The most common species causing this
disease in the Americas is Ancylostoma braziliense.
INFECTION and TRANSITION

caused by helminth larvae that usually infest cats, dogs and other
animals. Humans can be infected with the larvae by walking
barefoot on sandy beaches or contacting moist soft soil that have
been contaminated with animal faeces
 SYMPTOMS

The infection causes a red, intensely pruritic (itchy) eruption. The

itching can become very painful and if scratched may allow a
secondary bacterial infection to develop. Cutaneous larva migrans
usually heals spontaneously over weeks to months and has been
known to last as long as one year.
TREATMENT

Topical treatments
Early lesions localised to small areas may be treated with topical
thiabendazole.

Oral medications
Oral medications such as anthelmintics (e.g. ivermectin, albendazole,
mebendazole) can provide a reliable cure.

Additional treatments
Antibiotics may be needed if a bacterial superinfection is present
Antihistamines and topical corticosteroids may be used to help relieve
itching.
PREVENTION

Wear shoes when walking in sandy areas.

It is best to lie on sand washed by the tide or use a mattress or chair on
tropical beaches visited by dogs.
Avoid lying on dry sand, even on a towel.
Even though the condition is self-limiting, treatment is available to
shorten its course and to alleviate symptoms.
THNKYUO