[Paragonimiasis]

Abstract

Paragonimiasis is a helminthic disease of carnivorous animals. Man is infected accidentally. It has a worldwide distribution but is mainly encountered in Southeast Asia, particularly in Korea. Other endemic areas include Africa and South America. Cerebral paragonimiasis is not rare, but pleuropulmonary manifestations are the most prevalent. They include hemoptysis (frequently rusty-colored), unilateral or bilateral pleural effusions, and pulmonary infiltrates or cavities. This constellation of symptoms often mimics those of tuberculosis. Cerebral and lung involvement has recently been investigated by CT-scan and NMR. The diagnosis is based on the identification of parasite eggs in sputum or feces, and on ELISA serology. The treatment of choice is praziquantel.