B83.1

Clinical Causes: Consumption of raw or undercooked freshwater fish, eels, frogs, poultry, or other intermediate hosts contaminated with Gnathostoma larvae Ingestion of food or water contaminated with infective larvae Environmental exposure in endemic regions where the parasite is common Poor food hygiene and handling practices increasing risk of ingestion of contaminated produce

Key Symptoms: Migrating or wandering swellings under the skin, often appearing suddenly in different locations Fibrous nodule formation near the swollen area Erythema or redness around swelling Pain or discomfort at the sites of swelling Fever, especially during the early stages of infection Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain if larvae migrate into internal organs Respiratory symptoms like cough or chest discomfort if larvae invade pulmonary tissues

Diagnosis Path: Clinical examination noting characteristic migratory swellings Patient history emphasizing dietary intake, especially raw freshwater fish or other potential sources Microscopic identification of larvae or eggs in skin biopsy samples Serological tests such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect specific antibodies Imaging studies like ultrasound or MRI may assist in visualizing migrating larvae Molecular techniques like PCR for confirmation in specialized laboratories

Treatment Protocols: Albendazole: An oral antiparasitic that effectively targets Gnathostoma larvae Ivermectin: Often used as an alternative or adjunct therapy Surgical removal: Extraction of accessible or persistent larvae in certain cases Supportive care: Managing symptoms such as pain or allergic reactions Follow-up: Monitoring for recurrence or complications after treatment