Vasculitis secondary to anti-C1q antibodies induced by Toxocariasis

Infection. 2015 Dec;43(6):755-8. doi: 10.1007/s15010-015-0766-x. Epub 2015 Mar 26.

Abstract

Introduction: Vasculitides occurring during parasitic infection are rare and may imply different mechanisms.

Methods: A case report of cutaneous vasculitis and visceral damage during a larva migrans syndrome.

Results: We report the case of a 64-year-old man who developed a purpura along with fever, respiratory failure, abdominal pain and myalgia. Immunological screening showed a high titer of both antinuclear antibodies and anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies along with anti-C1q antibodies. Toxocara canis serology returned highly positive with a positive western-blot. The use of antiparasitic drugs in combination with corticosteroids resulted in a dramatic improvement in the patient's condition.

Conclusions: Clinicians should be aware of the systemic complications that may occur during Toxocara canis infection, including vasculitis and immunological disorder.

Keywords: Eosinophilia; Larva migrans; Toxocara cani(s); Vasculitis; c1q-antibody.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antiparasitic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Autoantibodies / immunology*
  • Complement C1q / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Toxocara canis / immunology*
  • Toxocariasis / complications*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vasculitis / diagnosis*
  • Vasculitis / pathology*

Substances

  • Antiparasitic Agents
  • Autoantibodies
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Complement C1q