Which parasite infection is characterized by larva migrans?

Study for the Harr Parasitology Exam. Review multiple-choice questions with hints and comprehensive explanations. Ace your certification!

Larva migrans is a term used to describe the condition that occurs when larvae of certain parasites migrate through the skin or tissues of their hosts, causing inflammation and irritation. The correct option, Ancylostoma braziliense, is known to be one of the primary causes of cutaneous larva migrans. This is a hookworm species typically found in the intestines of dogs and cats, and when their larvae penetrate human skin, they cannot complete their lifecycle and instead wander through the skin, leading to the characteristic symptoms of larva migrans.

In contrast, the other parasites listed do not primarily cause this condition. Ascaris lumbricoides, for example, is a roundworm that can lead to ascariasis, which involves intestinal symptoms but is not associated with skin migration. Giardia lamblia is a protozoan responsible for giardiasis, which typically presents with gastrointestinal symptoms rather than any skin manifestations. Trichuris trichiura, or whipworm, also affects the gastrointestinal tract and does not produce larva migrans. Therefore, Ancylostoma braziliense is the only choice associated with the term "larva migrans."

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