Feb 26 • 18:24 UTC 🇪🇨 Ecuador El Universo (ES)

This parasite caused memory loss and organ damage in a woman, never before recorded in humans

A 64-year-old woman in New South Wales, Australia, suffered neurological symptoms and organ lesions due to a previously undocumented parasitic infection.

A 64-year-old woman from New South Wales, Australia, is experiencing severe health issues attributed to a parasitic infection that has never been reported in humans before. Her symptoms began with consistent abdominal pain and diarrhea over a three-week period, further complicated by dry cough and night sweats. Imaging studies revealed inflammation in the lungs, along with lesions on the liver and spleen, prompting an initial diagnosis of eosinophilic pneumonia due to elevated eosinophil levels, a type of white blood cell linked to parasitic infections. The medical team administered prednisolone to alleviate her symptoms.

Despite this treatment providing partial relief, the organ lesions continued to persist, raising concerns about the diagnosis. Further testing ruled out common bacterial, fungal, and known parasitic infections, which left medical professionals puzzled. Given her travel history to areas with potential parasitic risks, the patient was prescribed ivermectin as a part of her treatment plan, but unfortunately, her condition did not improve. The situation marks a significant medical event, challenging existing knowledge about parasites and their effects on human health.

This case has implications for public health, emphasizing the need for vigilance regarding emerging pathogens and parasites as global travel continues to expand. As the medical community strives to understand this unusual case, it underscores the importance of research in parasitology and the potential risks posed by previously unknown infectious agents. This woman's health crisis serves as a reminder of the evolving challenges within the realm of infectious diseases, particularly as new strains and species are identified.

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