Question:

Chiclero's ulcer is caused by

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Remember that "Chiclero" refers to chicle-gatherers in Central American forests. Cutaneous leishmaniasis affecting their ears is classically caused by the Leishmania mexicana complex.
  • Sarcoptes scabiei
  • Leishmania mexicana
  • Strongyloides stercoralis
  • Entamoeba histolytica
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Chiclero's ulcer, also historically known as bay sore, is a specific clinical manifestation of cutaneous leishmaniasis.
It is prevalent in Central America and parts of South America, primarily affecting workers who harvest natural latex from chicle trees in forest environments.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The disease is caused by the intracellular protozoan parasite Leishmania mexicana.
This parasite is transmitted to humans and animals through the bite of infected female phlebotomine sandflies of the genus Lutzomyia.
The classic lesion of Chiclero's ulcer is a painless, slow-healing, or chronic mutilating ulcer typically located on the pinna of the ear.
This specific localization is due to the sandfly's preference for biting exposed areas of the skin, such as the ear, while workers are in the forest.
The infection often leads to severe destruction of the auricular cartilage because of the poor vascularity of the cartilage tissue and the localized immune response.
Let us review the other options:
Sarcoptes scabiei is an ectoparasitic mite that causes sarcoptic mange in animals and scabies in humans.
Strongyloides stercoralis is an intestinal threadworm of dogs, cats, and humans causing strongyloidiasis.
Entamoeba histolytica is a protozoan parasite causing amoebic dysentery and liver abscesses.
Therefore, Leishmania mexicana is the specific causative agent of Chiclero's ulcer.

Step 3: Final Answer:

Chiclero's ulcer is caused by Leishmania mexicana, which corresponds to option (B).
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