What is hookworm?
It is an intestinal parasite found in humans. A hookworm rash in humans is an indicator of an infection. However, those who have mild infection do not have any symptoms at all.Those severely infected may experience symptoms other than rashes such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, weight loss, restlessness, fever, and anemia.
The patient's physical and cognitive growth will be affected too. The hookworm rash shows within five days after exposure to hookworms. In some instances, it would take a month for the rash to show up.
There will be a winding snake-like rash, blister, and itching. Species of hookworm that cause infection in people are Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus. The rash is winding in nature. It can grow up to 2 centimeters per day. The rash appears on the part of the body that has been exposed to contaminated ground such as the legs, feet, and buttocks. (1, 2, and 3)
Hookworm rash Pictures
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Hookworm life cycle
- The eggs are passed in the stool. An adequate moisture and warmth are needed for the larvae to hatch in two days' time.
- The larva will eventually grow in the feces in the soil. It would take around five to ten days for the larva to become filariform. It is during this stage that the larva is infective.
- The infective larva has the ability to survive for up to four weeks provided the environment is favorable. Once it gets in contact with humans, it penetrates through the skin and enters the blood vessels. It will eventually find its way to the heart and lungs. From various structures in the lungs, the larva will eventually pass down the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum where it matures.
- The male and female larva will mate, the eggs appear in the feces, and the cycle goes on. (3, 4, 5, and 6)
Who are at risk for hookworm rash?
- People who live in the tropics, especially in the warm area.
- Pregnant women are susceptible to infection.
- People who are exposed to poor sanitation.
- People with poor hygiene.
- Children who are exposed to contaminated soil.
- People who work with soil such as farmers, plumbers, exterminators, and electricians. (2, 7, and 8)
Diagnosis
To accurately diagnose the patient's condition, a stool exam and blood work should be done. The stool is checked for the presence of hookworm egg. A blood sample is drawn to find out if the patient lacks nutrients and has anemia. (2, 3)
How to get rid of hookworm rash?
For the hookworm rash to completely disappear, the root cause of the infection should be addressed. The doctor usually prescribes antihelminthic medication to completely get rid of hookworm. Anti-parasitic medicines are effective in the treatment of hookworm rash. The drug can be taken orally or can be applied topically. Hookworm rash is self-limiting and disappears within a week of the treatment. If left untreated, it would take months for the rash to completely go away. (3, 4, and 6)
How to prevent hookworm infection?
A hookworm infection can be prevented through the following methods:
- Always use sanitary toilet facilities.
- Make sure you wear protecting clothing when getting in contact with the soil such as wearing shoes and gloves when working with soil.
- If you have pets, make sure you treat them for hookworm to prevent spreading hookworm to humans.
- Dispose fecal matter properly.
- Be very careful when using public facilities. (2, 4, 7, and 8)
References
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/313077.php#How_do_people_get_a_hookworm_infection?
- http://www.msdmanuals.com/home/infections/parasitic-infections/hookworm-infection
- https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/218805-clinical
- https://www.healthline.com/health/hookworm
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hookworm_infection
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hookworm/
- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/conditions/dermatology/creeping_eruption_85,P00272
- http://rajn.co/hookworms-in-humans-symptoms-treatment-life-cycle-prevention/
