A retrospective study on atypical presentations of cutaneous larva migrans - Case series

• Author Details:   
• Priya B T ^*
• Sowmiya R
• Hema Priyadharshini D
• Anandan Venkatesan

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Cutaneous larva migrans (CLM), a prevalent parasitic skin infection in tropical and subtropical regions, typically manifests as pruritic serpiginous tracks. However, the clinical presentation of CLM can exhibit considerable variability, and atypical manifestations may present diagnostic challenges for dermatologists. This retrospective case series examines ten atypical CLM presentations at a tertiary care hospital involving patients of diverse ages and occupations with lesions in uncommon anatomical sites, including the shoulder, back, forearm, foot, groin, thigh, and abdomen. The initial misdiagnoses included bacterial infection, irritant contact dermatitis, paederus dermatitis, pompholyx, cellulitis, and dermatophytosis. However, closer examination revealed characteristic serpiginous tracks, confirming CLM. Treatment modalities included antibiotics for secondary infections, antihistamines for pruritus, and albendazole as anthelmintic therapy. Misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment with corticosteroids and antifungal agents in some cases exacerbate the condition. This series underscores the necessity of recognizing atypical CLM presentations for accurate diagnosis and treatment, prevention of complications, and improvement in patient outcomes.