Pulmonary paragonimiasis: Close mimic to pulmonary tuberculosis in endemic regions

Abstract

We, hereby, report a case of pulmonary paragonimiasis in a patient from an endemic region who was misdiagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis as the clinical features of both diseases are the same. The subtle clue such as eosinophilia, food habits, and travel history can help us diagnose parasitic infections. Pulmonary paragonimiasis with coughing up rusty brown sputum is the most common presentation of the disease. Praziquantel is mainstay of treatment. Highlight: This case report is to draw the attention of the medical fraternity to the diagnosis of paragonimiasis which is endemic in Asian, African, and South American countries, whose diagnosis is often delayed or missed.