LARVA MIGRANS Meaning and
Definition
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Larva migrans, also known as cutaneous larva migrans or creeping eruption, is a skin condition caused by the migration of certain parasitic larvae through the skin. It primarily affects individuals who come into contact with contaminated soil or sand inhabited by these larvae.
The condition is most commonly caused by animal parasites, such as certain species of hookworms, roundworms, or strongyloides. Larva migrans typically occurs in tropical and subtropical regions, where these parasites thrive, but it can also be found in other parts of the world.
Symptoms of larva migrans usually appear a few days to weeks after exposure and typically manifest as an itchy, red, and winding rash on the skin. The rash may be accompanied by sensations of itching, burning, or stinging. The affected area may enlarge and move over time as the larva continues to migrate beneath the skin.
Diagnosis of larva migrans is primarily done based on the clinical presentation, history of exposure to contaminated soil or sand, and sometimes confirmed through skin biopsy. Treatment typically involves the application of topical creams or lotions containing anti-parasitic medications, such as thiabendazole or albendazole, to the affected area. In some cases, oral medications may be prescribed to eradicate the parasites from the body.
Prevention is key in avoiding larva migrans, and individuals are advised to wear shoes and avoid direct contact with contaminated soil or sand in areas where these parasites are prevalent. Treatment is usually effective, and the prognosis is generally favorable with proper medical intervention.
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Creeping eruption, a progressing circumscribed line dermatitis caused by the burrowing in the skin the minute larva of a species of Gastrophilus bot-fly.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LARVA MIGRANS
- karva migrans
- parva migrans
- oarva migrans
- lzrva migrans
- lsrva migrans
- lwrva migrans
- lqrva migrans
- laeva migrans
- ladva migrans
- lafva migrans
- latva migrans
- la5va migrans
- la4va migrans
- larca migrans
- larba migrans
- larga migrans
- larfa migrans
- larvz migrans
- larvs migrans
- larvw migrans
Etymology of LARVA MIGRANS
The term "Larva Migrans" is derived from Latin and it means "wandering larva". Here is the breakdown of the etymology:
1. Larva: This Latin word originally referred to a "ghost" or "spectral being". In Roman mythology, it was believed to be the spirits of the dead and later came to refer to the form or shape of a specter. Over time, the term also began to encompass the concept of a young, immature form of an organism, particularly an insect, that has a distinct appearance different from the adult form.
2. Migrans: This Latin term comes from the verb "migrare", meaning "to move or wander". It relates to the act of movement or migration from one place to another.
