Abstract
BackgroundHookworm-related cutaneous larva migrans (HrCLM) is a neglected tropical skin disease associated with significant clinical pathology. Little knowledge exists about prevalence and risk factors of HrCLM in endemic regions.Methodology/ Principal FindingsTo understand the epidemiology of HrCLM in Amazonia, we conducted a cross-sectional study in a resource-poor township in Manaus, Brazil. HrCLM was diagnosed in 8.2% (95% CI, 6.3–10.1%) of the study population (N = 806) with a peak prevalence of 18.2% (95% CI, 9.3–27.1%) in children aged 10–14. Most of the tracks (62.4%) were located on the feet, and 10.6% were superinfected. HrCLM was associated independently with age under 15, male sex, presence of animal faeces on the compound, walking barefoot on sandy ground and poverty.Conclusions/ SignificanceHrCLM is common in resource-poor communities in Amazonia and is related to poverty. To reduce the disease burden caused by HrCLM, living conditions have to be improved.
Highlights
Hookworm-related cutaneous larva migrans (HrCLM) is a parasitic skin disease caused by the penetration of animal hookworm larvae into the human skin
We clinically examined the population of a resource-poor neighbourhood in Manaus, capital of Amazonas State, Brazil, and investigated HrCLM-associated risk factors
Hookworm-related cutaneous larva migrans (HrCLM) is a parasitic skin disease caused by the penetration of feline or canine hookworm larvae into the human epidermis
Summary
Hookworm-related cutaneous larva migrans (HrCLM) is a parasitic skin disease caused by the penetration of feline or canine hookworm larvae into the human epidermis. The larva is unable to cross the basal membrane of the epidermis and migrates in the compartment of the epidermis until it dies spontaneously after a few weeks to several months [1,4,5]. The migration of animal hookworm larvae causes a typical elevated erythematous linear or serpiginous track known as “creeping eruption” [6]. Additional skin injury may be caused by inappropriate surgical manipulation of the lesion and treatment with toxic substances [10]. Hookworm-related cutaneous larva migrans (HrCLM) is a neglected tropical skin disease associated with significant clinical pathology. Little knowledge exists about prevalence and risk factors of HrCLM in endemic regions.
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