Anguillulosis - Symptoms, Reasons And Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Venkata Ranga Reddy Valluru , Gastroenterologists Medical

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Anguillulosis, also known as eelworm disease, is a parasitic infection caused by tiny nematodes called Anguillula aceti. These microscopic worms can infect humans through contaminated food or water sources. When ingested, the eelworms can cause various health issues in the body. It is important to be cautious about the hygiene and quality of the food and water you consume to prevent anguillulosis.

Proper cooking and washing of fruits and vegetables, as well as drinking clean water, can help reduce the risk of contracting this parasitic infection. If you suspect you may have anguillulosis or are experiencing related symptoms, it is essential to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What Are the Types Of Anguillulosis?

There are two main types of Anguillulosis: cercarial dermatitis and gnathostomiasis. Cercarial dermatitis occurs when certain parasites penetrate the skin while swimming in contaminated water, leading to an itchy rash.

On the other hand, gnathostomiasis is a more severe form of the disease caused by ingesting raw or undercooked freshwater fish contaminated with the parasite. Both types of Anguillulosis can result in skin irritation, itching, and discomfort, requiring medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Cutaneous anguillulosis, also known as "creeping eruption," is a type of skin infection caused by hookworm larvae burrowing under the skin.
Visceral anguillulosis affects the internal organs, typically the intestines, and can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.
Ocular anguillulosis involves the eye, with symptoms such as redness, itching, and possible visual disturbances due to the presence of the parasite.
Pulmonary anguillulosis affects the respiratory system, potentially causing coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing as the larvae migrate through the lungs.

What Are the Symptoms of Anguillulosis?

Anguillulosis, also known as swimmer's itch, may cause symptoms such as red, itchy bumps or blisters on the skin shortly after swimming in contaminated water. You might experience a tingling or burning sensation in the affected areas, which can be uncomfortable. These symptoms typically appear within hours of exposure and can last for several days.

If you suspect you have swimmer's itch, it's important to avoid scratching to prevent infection and seek medical advice for appropriate treatment options. Remember to avoid swimming in potentially contaminated water to prevent future occurrences of Anguillulosis.

Abdominal pain is a common symptom of Anguillulosis, often accompanied by cramping and discomfort in the stomach region.
Diarrhea may occur in individuals with Anguillulosis, leading to frequent loose or watery bowel movements.
Fatigue and weakness can be experienced by those infected with Anguillulosis, making everyday activities more challenging.
Nausea and vomiting are potential symptoms of Anguillulosis, causing an unpleasant sensation in the stomach and throat.
Weight loss may occur in individuals with Anguillulosis due to decreased appetite and difficulty in absorbing nutrients from food.

What Are the Causes of Anguillulosis?

This microscopic worm infects the soil and can contaminate plants, particularly those grown in poorly drained or waterlogged conditions. The main factors contributing to anguillulosis include unsanitary agricultural practices, contaminated irrigation water, and improper soil management.

Once the nematodes infect the plant roots, they disrupt the nutrient uptake and water flow, leading to stunted growth and poor crop yields. Controlling anguillulosis involves implementing proper sanitation measures, crop rotation, and using nematode-resistant plant varieties to mitigate the disease's impact.

Anguillulosis can be caused by consuming contaminated water or food that has been in contact with contaminated soil.
Ingesting larvae from infected raw or undercooked seafood, particularly eels, can lead to Anguillulosis.
Direct skin contact with contaminated soil or water sources harboring the infective larvae can result in Anguillulosis transmission.
Occupational exposure in industries such as agriculture, fishing, or wastewater management may increase the risk of contracting Anguillulosis.
Poor sanitation practices, such as inadequate handwashing after handling soil or contaminated materials, can contribute to the spread of Anguillulosis.

When to See a Doctor for Anguillulosis?

An infectious disease specialist or gastroenterologist should be consulted if you suspect Anguillulosis. Persistent gastrointestinal symptoms, skin reactions, or respiratory issues may indicate a serious infection requiring prompt medical evaluation and treatment.

You should see a doctor if you have:

Persistent abdominal pain, nausea, or diarrhea lasting more than a few days
Recurring skin rashes or larva currens (rapidly moving hive-like skin tracks)
Unexplained weight loss or fatigue alongside digestive issues

Get medical help immediately if:

You experience severe breathing difficulties, coughing blood, or signs of lung involvement
High fever with confusion or signs of sepsis develops suddenly
Symptoms of hyperinfection appear, such as severe vomiting, meningitis, or shock

These could be signs of a serious complication like Anguillulosis, which needs urgent care.

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How is the Diagnosis of Anguillulosis Performed?

Anguillulosis, also known as swimmer's itch, is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. During the evaluation, the healthcare provider will inquire about recent water exposure and symptoms experienced. A physical examination may reveal characteristic skin reactions.

Laboratory tests such as skin scrapings or blood tests can confirm the presence of Anguillula larvae. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis. By integrating these approaches, healthcare professionals can accurately diagnose Anguillulosis and initiate appropriate treatment promptly.

Diagnosing Anguillulosis typically involves fecal examination to detect microscopic larvae or eggs of the parasite.
Blood tests may be conducted to identify specific antibodies against the Anguillula larvae.
Imaging studies like ultrasound or MRI can help visualize any potential damage or blockages caused by the parasite.
Biopsy of affected tissues may be performed to confirm the presence of Anguillula larvae or related inflammatory changes.
Serologic tests can be utilized to detect antigens related to Anguillulosis in the blood.

What is the Treatment for Anguillulosis?

Anguillulosis, caused by the parasitic nematode Anguillula aceti, can be effectively treated through several approaches. The primary treatment options include antiparasitic medications such as albendazole or mebendazole, which help eliminate the parasites from the body.

In addition to medication, supportive care may be necessary to manage symptoms such as abdominal pain or diarrhea. Proper hygiene practices, such as washing hands before meals and after using the restroom, can also help prevent reinfection. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove large masses of parasites. Overall, a combination of medication, supportive care, and preventive measures is key to successfully treating Anguillulosis.

Anguillulosis, also known as Strongyloidiasis, is a parasitic infection caused by the roundworm Strongyloides stercoralis. Treatment options for Anguillulosis typically involve the use of antiparasitic medications. The primary choice of medication is Ivermectin, which is highly effective in treating this infection.
Albendazole is another antiparasitic drug that may be used as an alternative treatment for Anguillulosis. In severe cases or when oral medications are not an option, healthcare providers may administer intravenous Thiabendazole. The duration of treatment may vary depending on the severity of the infection and the individual's response to medication.

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What to Expect During Recovery from Anguillulosis?

Recovery from Anguillulosis, also known as strongyloidiasis, depends on the severity of the infection, the individual's immune status, and the response to antiparasitic treatment. Most people recover completely with prompt diagnosis and appropriate therapy, although follow-up is important to ensure the infection has been eliminated.

Response to antiparasitic treatment: Medications such as ivermectin or albendazole effectively eliminate the parasite in most cases.
Gradual symptom improvement: Abdominal pain, diarrhea, skin rash, cough, and other symptoms usually improve within days to weeks after treatment.
Follow-up testing: Stool examinations or blood tests may be repeated to confirm that the infection has been completely cleared.
Management of severe infection: Individuals with disseminated strongyloidiasis or weakened immune systems may require prolonged treatment and hospitalization.
Nutritional recovery: A balanced diet and adequate hydration support healing and help restore overall health.
Regular medical follow-up: Ongoing monitoring is recommended, particularly for immunocompromised individuals, to detect recurrence or persistent infection.
Good prognosis with early treatment: Most individuals recover fully when the infection is diagnosed and treated promptly, while delayed treatment can lead to serious complications.