Gnathostomiasis - An Emerging Nematodal Zoonotic Disease

Abstract

Gnathostomiasis, an emerging food-borne helminthic zoonosis, is reported in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The disease is caused by the third stage larvae of several species of the genus Gnathostoma. The life cycle of the helminth Gnathostoma is complex as it needs two intermediate hosts. Man acts as an accidental host, and acquires infection by ingesting raw or undercooked or unprocessed meat of the freshwater fish, chicken, duck, frog, pig, and snake. Cutaneous and visceral form of disease is reported in human beings. The involvement of central nervous system carries high morbidity and mortality. Laboratory help is required to diagnose Gnathostomiasis. Disease should be differentiated from angiostrongyliasis, cutaneous larva migrans and trichinosis. Chemotherapy is done with albendazole and ivermectin. However, surgical excision of parasite becomes imperative when vital organs are affected. Thorough cooking of meat in endemic areas and health education of people about the importance of safe cooking are considered the best strategy to control this emerging food-borne nematodal zoonosis. Further studies on the diagnostic techniques and epidemiology of gnathostomiasis seem imperative.