Esophagostomiasis

Parasitic intestinal infection caused by various Oesophgostomum species (nematodes). The parasite usually infects monkeys, goats, cattle, sheep and pigs. The infection is relatively rare in humans and is usually limited to the north of Togo or Ghana.

Human infections are due to Oesophagostomum bifurcum. After oral absorption, the pathogens penetrate the intestinal wall. In some species, these larvae quickly develop into adult worms which migrate back into the intestinal lumen. In other species, immature worms develop and encapsulate themselves in the intestinal wall. This leads to nodular changes (helminths) in the intestine, often in large numbers. In rare cases, cysts or subcutaneous nodules are formed.

Epigastric or periumbilical masses are clinically impressive. These develop within a few weeks. They are painful.

Albendazole, Pyrantel

Indications of a rare or special parasitosis are primarily based on the exact anamnesis of the patient:

• Where did an immigrant spend his childhood / youth?
• Which regions did a traveller touch?
• Stay in endemic areas of rare diseases?
• What exposure risks did a traveller have?
• Food - raw fish, raw crustaceans, raw meat or cress?
• Bathing in fresh water ?
• Traditional healing methods / medicines - such as snake bile ?
• Contact with animals ?

1. Burchard GD et al (1993) Intestinal and larval nematode infections. In: Lang W et al (Eds) Tropical medicine in clinic and practice. Thieme Publishing House Stuttgart S 153-154