Cutaneous Larva Migrans: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How to Treat It

When dealing with Cutaneous Larva Migrans, a creeping skin eruption caused by parasite larvae that crawl just under the surface of the skin. Also known as creeping eruption, it typically appears after walking barefoot on contaminated beaches or soil. cutaneous larva migrans isn’t just a harmless itch; the rash can spread over several centimeters a day, leaving painful, inflamed tracks. In simple terms, the condition occurs when hookworm larvae enter the epidermis (semantic triple: Cutaneous larva migrans is caused by hookworm larvae). The main culprits are tropical hookworms that normally infect dogs and cats but get “lost” in humans.

Key Players Behind the Itch

The most common offender is the hookworm, specifically Ancylostoma braziliense or Ancylostoma caninum, which thrive in warm, moist environments like sandy beaches. These parasites (semantic triple: Hookworm infection often occurs in tropical coastal regions) release larvae that can penetrate skin within minutes. Another important entity is dermatology, the medical specialty that diagnoses and manages skin parasite infections. Dermatologists rely on a clear history of exposure, the characteristic serpiginous tracks, and sometimes a skin scraping to confirm the diagnosis (semantic triple: Effective treatment requires proper diagnosis). Once identified, the standard therapy includes a single dose of oral albendazole or ivermectin, or topical thiacetazone for milder cases. Prevention is just as critical: wearing shoes, using beach mats, and avoiding direct contact with potentially contaminated sand can stop the larvae before they bite.

Our tag page gathers a range of articles that touch on skin‑related infections, antibiotic stewardship, and parasite treatment—topics that often intersect with cutaneous larva migrans. You’ll find guides on diagnosing skin infections, managing fungal outbreaks, and using antiparasitic drugs safely. Whether you’re a traveler planning a beach vacation, a clinician looking for quick treatment protocols, or just curious about why a rash might crawl, the collection below offers practical insight and up‑to‑date recommendations. Dive in to see how each piece connects to the broader picture of skin health and parasite control.

Ivermectin for Skin Parasites: How to Treat Scabies, Larva Migrans & More

Learn how ivermectin treats skin parasites like scabies, larva migrans, demodex and myiasis, with dosing, safety tips, and a comparison table for scabies treatment.

Written by

Harveer Singh, Oct, 25 2025