Common Manifestations of Parasitic Infections

Physical examination should be directed to the involved organ system. Cutaneous lesions are often the first sign of parasitic infection (see Table 4). Skin rash is seen with cutaneous larva migrans syndromes. Skin thickening syndromes, subcutaneous nodules, and lymphatic enlargement are seen with filariasis. Wheezing and shortness of breath occur with tropical pulmonary eosinophilia. Muscle swelling and periorbital edema are symptoms of trichinosis.