Epidermal parasitic skin diseases (EPSD) are a heterogeneous category of infectious diseases in which parasite–host interactions are confined to the upper layer of the skin. The six major EPSD are scabies, pediculosis (capitis, corporis and pubis), tungiasis and hookworm-related cutaneous larva migrans.
What are two common parasites that can infest the skin?
Arthropods are the most commonly encountered parasites in the skin and subcutaneous tissues and include Sarcoptes scabei, Demodex species, Tunga penetrans, and myiasis-causing fly larvae. Protozoal parasites such as Leishmania may also be common in some settings.
What does a parasitic skin infection look like?
Scabies infection appears as a red, bumpy, itchy rash on the skin. It is caused by infection by the human itch mite, Sarcoptes scabiei. The mites burrow deep into the skin leaving tell-tale red lines (burrows) that are visible with a magnifying glass.
Which parasites can penetrate human skin?
Skin-penetrating nematodes, including threadworms of the Strongyloides genus and hookworms of the Ancylostoma and Necator genera, are gastrointestinal parasites found primarily in tropical and subtropical regions around the world (1–3).
Which worm can enters through skin?
When the eggs hatch, they release young hookworms, or larvae. If you walk barefoot over this soil, the young worms can enter your body through the skin on your feet and cause an infection. This is the most common way that people get hookworms.
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