Cutaneous Larva Migrans: What You Need to Know
When dealing with Cutaneous Larva Migrans, a skin condition caused by hookworm larvae that wander just beneath the surface. Also known as creeping eruption, it creates itchy, winding tracks that can spread over the feet, thighs, or buttocks. This condition shows up most often after walking barefoot on warm, sandy beaches where animals have deposited contaminated feces. The larvae can’t complete their life cycle in humans, so they stay in the skin, causing the characteristic rash. Below we’ll break down the key pieces you’ll need to recognize, diagnose, and treat it.
The main culprit behind the rash is Hookworm Larvae, the immature form of animal hookworms like Ancylostoma braziliense. These tiny parasites hatch in the soil, wait for a host, and when they sense warm skin, they penetrate and begin migrating. Because they can’t go deeper, they create a serpentine path as they move, which is why the skin looks like a winding line. Understanding the parasite’s biology helps explain why the rash is so itchy – the larvae release enzymes that irritate nerves and provoke an immune response.
The visual hallmark of the disease is the Serpiginous Rash, a raised, thread‑like track that often turns red and inflames around the edges. It may start as a tiny bump and then grow a few centimeters a day, giving the impression of a “creeping” eruption. The rash is usually painless at first but becomes intensely itchy as the immune system reacts. People often mistake it for eczema, allergic reactions, or even a fungal infection, which can delay proper care.
Getting the right diagnosis doesn’t require high‑tech labs; a simple Skin Scraping, where a clinician gently lifts the outer skin layer for microscopic examination can reveal the larvae in many cases. In most clinics, doctors rely on the characteristic appearance and travel history to make a clinical diagnosis. Blood tests are rarely needed, but a complete blood count may show eosinophilia, a sign of a parasitic infection. Early identification stops the rash from spreading and prevents secondary infections caused by scratching.
Treatment is straightforward once the diagnosis is clear. The drug of choice is Ivermectin, an oral antiparasitic that kills the larvae within a few days. A single dose of 200 µg/kg usually clears the infection, and a second dose a week later ensures any remaining parasites are gone. For patients who can’t take oral medication, a topical cream containing thiabendazole works as an alternative, though it may cause more skin irritation. Most people notice relief within 48 hours, and the rash fades over a week or two.
Prevention hinges on simple habits: wear shoes on beaches, avoid sitting directly on sand, and keep pets de‑wormed. If you travel to tropical regions, use a barrier cream that contains permethrin, and wash your feet thoroughly after any beach exposure. These steps cut down the chance of picking up larvae and keep your skin clear of that unsettling creeping line.
Below you’ll find a curated list of articles that dive deeper into each aspect of cutaneous larva migrans—from detailed medication guides to practical prevention tips. Browse the collection to get a full picture of how to spot, diagnose, and treat this skin parasite efficiently.
