Overview
Intestinal angiostrongyliasis is a parasitic infection caused by the nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis, primarily affecting the gastrointestinal tract and potentially leading to eosinophilic infiltration and extrapulmonary manifestations such as eosinophilic meningoencephalitis 1.Diagnosis
Serological confirmation of Angiostrongylus cantonensis infection
Imaging showing focal eosinophilic infiltration in the digestive tract, particularly in the sigmoid colon
Histopathological examination revealing serosal vessel invasion by larvae
Temporal association between gastrointestinal symptoms and subsequent neurological involvement 1Management
First-line treatment: Albendazole or mebendazole (specific doses not provided in the abstract)
Adjunctive management: Supportive care for neurological symptoms, including corticosteroids in cases of severe eosinophilic meningoencephalitis 1Special Populations
Neurological involvement: Increased vigilance in monitoring and managing neurological symptoms in pediatric and elderly populations due to potential severity 1Key Recommendations
Serologically confirm Angiostrongylus cantonensis infection in patients presenting with eosinophilic infiltration and gastrointestinal symptoms (Evidence: Moderate) 1
Initiate antihelminthic therapy with albendazole or mebendazole for confirmed cases (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1
Closely monitor and manage neurological complications, especially in vulnerable populations like children and the elderly (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1References
1 Sawanyawisuth K, Pugkhem A, Mitchai J, Intapan PM, Anunnatsiri S, Limpawattana P et al.. Abdominal angiostrongyliasis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis: a possible cause of eosinophilic infiltration in human digestive tract. Pathology, research and practice 2010. link