While relaxing on the beach, Marystella Gomez, 27, in Colombia, suddenly discovered red spots on her right leg. Because they were not uncomfortable, Gomez did not pay any attention, according to the Daily Star (UK).
Marystella Gomez was shocked to learn that the rash on her shin was caused by a parasite.
But a few days later, Ms. Gomez suddenly discovered that the red rash had become raised and itchy at night. She went to the doctor and was told that she might have an allergic reaction or even a fungal infection.
“I went to the clinic and they told me I had an allergy or fungus, then gave me medicine. It didn’t work and the condition in my shin got worse,” Ms Gomez said.
However, a few days later, she went to see a dermatologist and learned the shocking truth. The doctor confirmed that Ms. Gomez had a parasitic infection. The parasite she had contracted was a hookworm. It burrows and lays eggs under the skin, leading to a condition called cutaneous larva migrans.
Ms. Gomez believes she may have been infected with the parasite after coming into contact with dog and cat feces on the beach.
The doctor prescribed medication to kill the parasites and Ms. Gomez is now in remission. She experiences itching on her shins at night because that is when the hookworms lay their eggs.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hookworm larvae can burrow into the skin and live there for several weeks. They often come into contact with the feet and penetrate the top layer of hard skin to penetrate inside, according to the Daily Star .
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