Sandy Crest Medical Centre - Health Tips

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Cutaneous Larva Migrans-Creeping Eruption

Cutaneous larva migrans (Beach Worm) is a skin manifestation of hookworm infestation most commonly dog or cat hookworm. Hookworm ova in the dog or cat faeces develop into infective larvae when left in warm moist ground or sand; transmission occurs when skin directly contacts contaminated soil or sand and larvae penetrate unprotected skin, usually of the feet, legs , buttocks or back. Cutaneous larva migrans occurs most commonly in tropical environments.

Cutaneous larva migrans causes intense itching and signs are redness and raised lesions at the site of entry, with a winding, threadlike subcutaneous trail of reddish-brown inflammation. Diagnosis is by history and clinical appearance and treatment is by either topical Thiabendazole liquid or cream. Albendazole tablets or suspension can also be used.

Cutaneous larva migrans should always be treated as it may be complicated by a self-limiting pulmonary reaction called Loffler’s syndrome.