Primary cutaneous amoebiasis: case report with review of the literature

Abstract

Primary cutaneous amoebiasis is extremely rare. Diagnosis is usually not suspected because of its rarity. Cutaneous amoebiasis responds readily to proper treatment, yet, if unrecognized and neglected, produces significant morbidity and may be fatal.

Tropical dermatology: Tropical diseases caused by protozoa

“…64 However, cutaneous manifestations may also occur either as a distinct entity (primary CA) or in association with disease in other organs, most often the large bowel. 65,66 The anus, perianal skin, or vulva may become involved related to the extension of rectal amebiasis. The penis can be inoculated during anal intercourse.…”

“…The penis can be inoculated during anal intercourse. 65 The skin of the abdominal wall may also be affected secondary to extension of liver abscesses. 9 Several species of entamoeba exist, but only E histolytica is pathogenic for humans.…”

“…65 The lesions caused by external inoculation can be located in other areas, such as the face. 65,71 Clinically, lesions of CA start as deep-seated swellings that rupture and ulcerate. Subsequent necrosis of the skin and subjacent tissue leads to undermining, which may be extensive.…”

Primary Cutaneous Amebiasis With a Fatal Outcome

“…3 The second route, primary cutaneous amebiasis, is an extremely rare condition in which there is primary involvement of skin without contiguity to the infected bowel or liver. 4 We herein report a fatal case of amebiasis with possible primary skin origin. 3,5-7…”

Atypical ulcers

“…Skin disease is thought typically to arise from contact with contaminated GI contents/stool, or due to direct extension from a diseased GI tract . Whereas primary cutaneous amebiasis (skin disease without extracutaneous disease) is generally considered exceedingly rare , one series of 31 cases of cutaneous amebiasis failed to detect visceral disease in 30%. Clinically, skin ulcers begin as painful red nodules that rupture, leading to well‐demarcated ulcerations showing undermined and erythematous borders (FIG.…”