Question

Parasite which causes both VLM and CLM is

• A. Toxocara canis
• B. Ancylostoma caninum
• C. Bunostomum trigonocephalum
• D. Gnathostoma spinigerum

Hint:

While *Toxocara canis* is synonymous with VLM and *Ancylostoma caninum* with CLM, *Gnathostoma spinigerum* is the exception that causes both cutaneous and visceral gnathostomiasis in humans.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Larva migrans is a condition in humans caused by the migration of larval nematodes belonging to non-human hosts.
- VLM (Visceral Larva Migrans): Migration of larvae through internal organs.
- CLM (Cutaneous Larva Migrans): Migration of larvae through the skin, causing creeping eruptions.
Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the migration patterns of each of the given parasites in humans:
(D) Gnathostoma spinigerum: This nematode infects dogs, cats, and wild carnivores.
Humans acquire infection by ingesting undercooked fish or poultry containing third-stage larvae.
In the human host, the larvae migrate erratically.
They can migrate through the subcutaneous tissues, causing painful, itchy, migratory swellings (Cutaneous Larva Migrans).
They can also migrate deeper into the internal organs (liver, lungs, eyes, brain), causing severe Visceral Larva Migrans.
Thus, Gnathostoma spinigerum is well known for causing both VLM and CLM.
(A) Toxocara canis is the classic cause of Visceral Larva Migrans and Ocular Larva Migrans, but does not typically cause CLM.
(B) Ancylostoma caninum (dog hookworm) is the classic cause of Cutaneous Larva Migrans (creeping eruption) in humans, but rarely causes VLM.
(C) Bunostomum trigonocephalum can cause mild cutaneous lesions in livestock handlers, but is not associated with VLM.

Step 2: Final Answer:
Gnathostoma spinigerum causes both visceral and cutaneous forms of larva migrans.