Unusual subcutaneous tumor caused by Dracunculus sp. in Vietnam: integrated clinical, parasitological, imaging, and molecular evidence
Hai Nguyen Thi, Hong Anh Vu Thi, Jan-2026, In: Journal of Parasitic Diseases, 50, p. s12639
Overview
Abstract:
Unusual manifestations of Dracunculus infection pose diagnostic challenges, particularly in non-endemic regions. This study reports a descriptive clinical and parasitological investigation of an atypical tumor-like presentation of human dracunculiasis in Vietnam. Clinical, imaging, and parasitological examinations were performed on a patient with an ivory-white cyst initially suspected to be a soft-tissue tumor. The parasite was extracted and identified based on its morphological and molecular features. The active movement of the worm was documented using video recordings. A live nematode was detected within a cyst lesion and identified as Dracunculus sp. based on 18 S rDNA sequence data. To our knowledge, this represents the first documented tumor-like presentation of human dracunculiasis in Vietnam, supported by live visual documentation. This study highlights an atypical manifestation of dracunculiasis that can mimic a soft tissue tumor. Recognition of such atypical presentations is critical for accurate diagnosis and effective management, particularly in regions where Dracunculus infection is rare and may be asymptomatic.
| Article number | s12639 |
| Journal | Journal of Parasitic Diseases |
| Volume | 50 |
| Publication status | Published - Jan-2026 |
| ISBN | ISSN: 0975-0703. |