Gnathostomiasis, which is caused by the nematode Gnathostoma spinigerum, is acquired when raw or undercooked fish harbouring the larvae are eaten. The larvae migrate, often in the subcutaneous tissues, causing a creeping eruption, pruritus, urticaria and eosinophilia. Gnathostomiasis is common in Latin America, Japan and southeast Asia, where it is becoming an endemic health problem.

Treatment

Albendazole given orally in a single dose of 400 mg daily for 3 consecutive days is usually curative.¹

¹ For further information, see WHO model prescribing information: drugs used in parasitic diseases, 2nd ed. Geneva, World Health Organization, 1995.