South Asian Journal of Parasitology

Tungiasis: Biology, Life Cycle, Epidemiology, Diagnosis, Prevention, and Treatment

Rhoda Nwalozie *

Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Science, Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.

Chinonye Oluchi Ezenwaka

Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Federal University Otuoke, Bayelsa State, Nigeria.

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

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Abstract

Tungiasis, caused by the female sand flea Tunga penetrans, is a neglected tropical disease that affects impoverished communities in tropical and subtropical regions. This comprehensive review discusses the biology, life cycle, epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of tungiasis. Tungiasis exhibits a patchy distribution, with higher prevalence rates reported in rural areas and areas with poor sanitation. Risk factors include poverty, inadequate housing conditions, and lack of access to proper footwear. The disease primarily affects vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly, leading to a significant socioeconomic burden. Clinical presentation of tungiasis involves characteristic lesions with embedded fleas, often leading to secondary infections, abscesses and ulcerations. Diagnosis is based on clinical examination and visualization of the flea within the skin lesion. Treatment involves the physical removal of embedded fleas, management of associated complications, wound care, and prevention of secondary infections. Prevention and control strategies are crucial in reducing the disease burden. Personal and environmental hygiene, including regular washing of feet and maintaining clean living environments, play a vital role in prevention. Community education and health promotion campaigns raise awareness and promote behavior change. Vector control measures and integrated approaches combining multiple strategies are effective in reducing tungiasis prevalence. Although progress has been made in understanding and managing tungiasis, challenges persist. Further research is needed to improve diagnostic techniques, enhance treatment options, and address the long-term consequences of the disease. Community engagement, interdisciplinary collaborations, and sustainable interventions are essential in controlling tungiasis and improving the health and well-being of affected populations. By implementing comprehensive prevention and control strategies, raising awareness, and addressing the socioeconomic impact of tungiasis, we can strive towards reducing the burden of this neglected tropical disease and improving the lives of individuals and communities affected by tungiasis.

Keywords: Tungiasis, Tunga penetrans, epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, prevention, treatment

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