Atypical Toxocara canis-Induced Hepatic Visceral Larva Migrans: Diagnostic Challenges and Literature Review.
Korean J Gastroenterol
; 83(6): 247-252, 2024 Jun 25.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38918038
ABSTRACT
Toxocariasis, a zoonotic infection transmitted by Toxocara canis (from dogs) and Toxocara cati (from cats) larvae, poses rare but severe risks to humans. We present a case of hepatic visceral larva migrans (VLM) caused by Toxocara canis in a 21-year-old male with a history of close contact with a pet dog. Initial symptoms and imaging findings mimicked a pyogenic liver abscess. The initial laboratory investigations revealed neutrophilia and elevated levels of IgE. Despite broad-spectrum antibiotics, persistent fever prompted further investigation. Subsequent serological testing for Toxocara antibodies and histopathological analysis of liver tissue demonstrating eosinophil infiltrates and Charcot-Leyden crystals led to a confirmed diagnosis of a liver abscess caused by Toxocara canis. Serological testing for Toxocara antibodies and histopathological analysis of liver tissue confirmed a Toxocara canis-induced liver abscess. Albendazole treatment yielded significant clinical improvement. This case highlights the necessity of considering toxocariasis in liver abscess differentials, particularly in high-seroprevalence regions like Vietnam. Relying solely on serological tests may be insufficient, emphasizing the need for corroborative evidence, including invasive procedures like liver biopsy, for accurate hepatic toxocariasis diagnosis.
Palabras clave
Texto completo:
1
Colección:
01-internacional
Base de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Larva Migrans Visceral
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Tomografía Computarizada por Rayos X
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Albendazol
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Toxocara canis
Límite:
Adult
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Animals
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Humans
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Male
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Korean J Gastroenterol
Asunto de la revista:
GASTROENTEROLOGIA
Año:
2024
Tipo del documento:
Article
País de afiliación:
Vietnam