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Tungiosis: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
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Tungiasis is a parasitic disease caused by the sand flea, characterized by the development of an allergic reaction, pain and an erythematous papule.
ICD-10 code
B88.1. Tungiasis (sand flea infestation).
Epidemiology of tungiasis
The reservoir and sources of tungiasis are warm-blooded animals and humans. The period of contagiousness is not determined. Tungiasis is common in South Asia, South and Central America, and Africa. Infection occurs when walking barefoot on the sand or lying on the beach. The fertilized female jumps up to 35 cm until it penetrates the skin of a warm-blooded animal or human.
What causes tungiasis?
Tungiasis is caused by the sand flea, Tunga penetrans. It parasitizes the skin, feeding on blood. It releases eggs into the environment. The initial size of a mature flea is 1 mm, in the skin it reaches 1 cm.
Pathogenesis of tungiasis
The pathogenesis of tungiasis is caused by the irritating effect of the parasite's excreta and the compression of the surrounding tissues by the growing flea. After the death and rejection of the parasite, tissue reparation occurs.
Symptoms of tungiasis
The feet and shins are most often affected. At the site of flea penetration, a black dot is visible, then a red painful papule. Penetration of the flea into the subungual space causes symptoms of tungiasis: sharp pain, often itching, allergic rashes on the skin.
What's bothering you?
Complications of tungiasis
Tungiasis can be complicated by secondary purulent infection, tetanus, anaerobic gas infection.
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How to examine?
Treatment of tungiasis
Treatment of tungiasis involves surgical removal of the flea and application of ointments with insecticides.
How to prevent tungiasis?
Tungiasis can be prevented by wearing closed shoes and using repellents.