Published in:
01-12-2015 | Case Report
Vasculitis secondary to anti-C1q antibodies induced by Toxocariasis
Published in: Infection | Issue 6/2015
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Introduction
Vasculitides occurring during parasitic infection are rare and may imply different mechanisms.
Methods
A case report of cutaneous vasculitis and visceral damage during a larva migrans syndrome.
Results
We report the case of a 64-year-old man who developed a purpura along with fever, respiratory failure, abdominal pain and myalgia. Immunological screening showed a high titer of both antinuclear antibodies and anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies along with anti-C1q antibodies. Toxocara canis serology returned highly positive with a positive western-blot. The use of antiparasitic drugs in combination with corticosteroids resulted in a dramatic improvement in the patient’s condition.
Conclusions
Clinicians should be aware of the systemic complications that may occur during Toxocara canis infection, including vasculitis and immunological disorder.