Cutaneous Larva Migrans
Caused by hookworm larvae in soil contaminated by animal faeces. The larvae penetrate and migrate into the human skin, especially via sites in contact with contaminated soil (e.g. feet, buttocks). Patients present with an extremely itchy, erythematous, serpiginous track that extends over days due to larval movement (Figure 22.1). The track consists of a combination of papules, vesicles or blisters. Diagnosis is made clinically. The condition is self-limiting as larvae die within 6–8 weeks of penetrating the skin. Treatment of limited disease is with topical 10% thiabendazole cream for 1–2 weeks; if widespread disease, oral albendazole or ivermectin.
Leishmaniasis
Caused by different species of the protozoan parasite, Leishmania. It is transmitted by infected female sandflies who bite human hosts and pass the protozoans into their bloodstream. Incubation period ranges from weeks to a year. There are three main types:
