Lagochilascariasis: An Emerging Parasitic Disease

Abstract

Lagochilascariasis, described for the first time in 1909, is caused by a helminth nematode within the Lagochilascaris genus, and Ascarididae family, which mainly affects the underprivileged, especially among rural populations. Brazil presents more than 75% of the cases worldwide, mostly in the Amazon region, where the illness is considered emergent. The main clinical manifestation in humans is the appearance of subcutaneous purulent lesions normally found around the neck, mastoid and middle ear regions, the originating form is a painless granulomatous reaction that may have a chronic course and lead to death. Considering the paucity of reports on this helminthiasis, a bibliographic study was performed with the intent of consolidating information found systemized as etiology, epidemiology, pathogeny, clinical aspects, diagnostic, treatment, prophylaxis and control, as well as guiding health professionals in the resolution of human lagochilasacariasis cases. The present review reinforces the need for further studies on the subject, with a view to increasing the appropriate management of the disease and learning from it, to improve control, based on adequate knowledge of its natural cycle, as well as health education of the population.KEY WORDS: Emerging diseases; human lagochilasacariasis; infectious diseases.