Haycocknema perplexum is a rare human pathogen that infects muscles. Its diagnosis is often delayed due to its rarity, and it is often misdiagnosed.
Haycocknema perplexum is a nematode that is acquired as a zoonosis. Many of the reported cases have been in Australia.
How the infection is acquired is uncertain but is presumed to be associated with wildlife contact.
Clinical features may include:
(1) muscle weakness
(2) myalgia
(3) muscle wastage
(4) dysphagia
(5) dysarthria or dysphonia
Adult female worms are able to continuously release larvae, resulting in progressive and persistent infections.
Laboratory findings:
(1) elevated serum CK
(2) peripheral eosinophilia
The diagnosis can be made by identification of the parasite in a skeletal muscle biopsy.
Differential diagnosis:
(1) trichinosis (only encysted larvae seen on muscle biopsy)
(2) toxoplasmosis
(3) muscular dystrophy
(4) autoimmune myositis
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
Specialty: Infectious Diseases
