Neuroangiostrongiliasis: situation in the Republic of Ecuador

Abstract

Introduction: angiostrongyliasis, is an infectious disease of the central nervous system (CNS) caused by the nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis, first found in rats in Canton, China, in 1935. The parasite also infects humans and its life cycle is complex, involving rats as definitive hosts and snails and slugs as intermediate hosts. In order to better understand the epidemiology, clinical significance, diagnosis, treatment and evolutionary relationships of this parasite, a review of general aspects of A. cantonensis is presented. Likewise, a description of the general situation of this parasitosis in the Republic of Ecuador, an entity that is evidenced in the country, for the first time, in humans in the year 2008, is provided.

Methods: a literature search was carried out in PubMed, SciELO to gather information on the epidemiology, clinical aspects, phylogeny, diagnosis and treatment of this parasitosis.

Conclusions: a comprehensive view of angiostrongyliasis worldwide and in particular in the Republic of Ecuador, provides the possibility of a better interpretation of key aspects related to the biology of the parasite, the epidemiology and the clinical picture of the disease and in turn offers better elements on the need to develop more effective diagnostic methods and treatments that contribute to better control of this parasitosis.