Geographical bug or cutaneous larva migrans is infection skin caused by some species of nematodesthat penetrate our skin when we come into contact with soil contaminated by these parasites. The geographic bug causes itchiness and lesions in curves, which are triggered by the larva when migrating through the skin. It can affect both adults and children and is an easily treatable infection.
The geographical animal was first described in 1874 and is currently observed in several places around the world, especially in countries with tropical and subtropical climates, such as Brazil.
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What is geography-animal?
Geographical animal or cutaneous larva migrans is a dermatosis caused by nematodes. The nematodes that most often cause the disease are the Ancylostoma brasiliensis it's the Ancylostoma caninus, parasites of domestic animals. These animals, when contaminated, eliminate feces with eggs of the parasites. These eggs give rise to larvae, which, under ideal conditions, can survive for several weeks in the ground.
How is the geo-bicho contracted?
The geo-bicho is contracted when human beings enter into contact with soil or airito contaminated by the ftimes from infected animals. The larvae then penetrate the skin, being limited to the epidermis and superficial dermis. They migrate through the organ, causing characteristic lesions, however, they cannot complete their life cycle and die after a certain period.
The places most affected by this infection are the feet and legs. Despite occurring in all genders, ages and races, the geographical animal is more common in children, as they often play with soil, and are therefore more exposed to contamination.
Symptoms of the geographical animal
The most characteristic symptom of the geographical animal is, without a doubt, the pattern that the larva makes when moving through the skin. When moving, the larva produces a curvy pattern, what remember a map, hence the name bicho-geographical. Before this pattern emerges, however, there is a small lesion that resembles an insect bite, is red and itchy.
It is noteworthy that the itch it is also an important symptom of geography, being described by many people as so intense that it disrupts sleep. Among the complications caused by the disease, we can mention the secondary infections by bacteria, that can occur due to the act of scratching the lesions.
Read too: Diseases caused by bacteria
Diagnosis of the geographical animal
The diagnosis of the geographical animal is made observing the patient's symptoms, like bending injuries, and talking about the places visited and habits this individual in order to know how the infection was acquired. Treatment should be started as soon as the disease is discovered.
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Treatment of the geographical animal
The treatment of the geographical animal must be indicated by a doctor and includes medicines that will kill the parasite. The doctor may recommend the use of medication in the form of tablet or ointment. The disease can regress spontaneously, however, the time of infection can be long, and the discomfort caused by the parasite is also long. To relieve local itching and swelling, you can apply ice.
Prevention of the geographic bug
As the geographic bug is contracted through contact with contaminated sand, some important tips can be followed in order to avoid it. The first one is avoid direct contact with sand known to be frequented by cats and dogs. This includes, for example, sand in playgrounds and beaches.
On beaches, a valuable suggestion is to wear shoes, and, when sitting on the sand, spread towels or mats in order to avoid direct contact with it. People who own dogs and cats should regularly take their animals to the veterinarian so that they receive dewormers and always collect their feces. Simple attitudes like these help to prevent the spread of the disease.
