Gnathostomiasis

What Is Gnathostomiasis?

Gnathostomiasis is an infection caused by the roundworm (nematode) Gnathostoma spinigerum. The parasite is found in certain areas of the world, including Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, South and Central America, Africa, andparts of the southern United States. Infection occurs through ingestion of uncooked and undercooked freshwater fish, frogs, and eels, or raw crab and shrimp. The roundworm larva embeds in the walls of the intestine and then migrates through other organs, such as the lungs, eyes, and skin. Gnathostomiasis can cause serious health problems, including intestinal blockage, abscesses, and systemic infection.

What Are the Symptoms of Gnathostomiasis?

Symptoms of gnathostomiasis depend on the stage of the infection and can range from mild to severe. Most people experience abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea, fever, headache, fatigue, and an overall feeling of ill health. Other symptoms may include skin lesions, swollen lymph nodes, and localized swelling. In more severe cases, gnathostomiasis can cause serious symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, and neurological damage.

How Is Gnathostomiasis Treated?

The treatment of gnathostomiasis typically includes a combination of anti-parasitic medications and antibiotics. The goal is to kill the parasite and reduce symptoms. Anthelmintics such as ivermectin and albendazole are commonly used to kill the roundworm. Antibiotics are prescribed to treat any secondary bacterial infections caused by the roundworm. In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove the roundworm and its larva from the body.

How Can I Prevent Gnathostomiasis?

The most important way to prevent gnathostomiasis is to only eat thoroughly cooked freshwater fish, frogs, and eels, and thoroughly cooked crab and shrimp. Be sure to cook foods to the appropriate internal temperatures to reduce risk of infection. If you are traveling to an area where gnathostomiasis is common, take steps to protect yourself from infection. Avoid eating raw or undercooked seafood and be sure to use safe water when washing and preparing food.

What Are the Complications of Gnathostomiasis?

Gnathostomiasis can lead to a wide range of complications, including:

• Intestinal blockage
• Intestinal abscesses
• Systemic infection
• Severe abdominal pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Neurological damage

It is important to seek medical attention if you think you have been infected with gnathostomiasis, as some of these complications can be life-threatening.