A Case of Possible Loiasis Contracted in Cameroon and Diagnosed in Milan, Italy, and Review of Cases Published in Dermatological Journals

Abstract

Loiasis is an infestation of the skin and eyes caused by the nematode Loa loa. We report a case of loiasis in a woman who contracted the infestation in Cameroon. The clinical picture was characterized by Calabar swellings on the upper limbs and axillary lymphadenopathy. Laboratory tests revealed persistent leucocytosis with neutropenia, lymphopenia, and eosinophilia. The search for microfilariae was always negative. The patient was successfully treated with ivermectin and albendazole. Follow-up (5 years) was negative for both clinical manifestations and laboratory tests.

Keywords

• loa loa
• loiasis
• calabar swellings
• diethylcarbamazine
• ivermectin
• albendazole