Disseminated tungiasis in an 8-year-old girl

Tizita Yosef; Radomir Reszke; Mahlet Melaku; Jacek Szepietowski

doi:10.5114/dr.2018.74170

eISSN: 2084-9893
ISSN: 0033-2526

Dermatology Review/Przegląd Dermatologiczny

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1/2018
vol. 105

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abstract:

Case report

Disseminated tungiasis in an 8-year-old girl

Tizita Yosef

,

Radomir Reszke

,

Mahlet Melaku

,

Jacek Szepietowski

Dermatol Rev/Przegl Dermatol 2018, 105, 81–86

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5114/dr.2018.74170

Online publish date: 2018/03/12

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Introduction
Tungiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by females of the ectoparasite sand flea Tunga penetrans. It is endemic in economically depressed communities and can be associated with considerable morbidity and poor quality of life.

Objective
To present a case of disseminated tungiasis in a patient from rural Ethiopia.

Case report
An 8-year-old neglected girl presented with painful nodular lesions on distal parts of the limbs. Physical examination revealed presence of periungually located white eggs. The lesions limited the patient’s mobility, gripping abilities, daily activity and quality of life. The diagnosis of tungiasis was established and the patient was treated with topical salicylated petroleum jelly and systemic ivermectin.

Conclusions
Severe tungiasis resulting in physical disability and affecting everyday life is not rare in rural Ethiopia. Even in endemic countries it is worth reporting this condition in order to increase awareness regarding interventions for prevention and design adequate control measures.

keywords:

Disseminated tungiasis in an 8-year-old girl

Tizita Yosef , Radomir Reszke , Mahlet Melaku , Jacek Szepietowski

tungiasis, skin infestation, tropical disease

Tizita Yosef

,

Radomir Reszke

,

Mahlet Melaku

,

Jacek Szepietowski