It is a disease caused by a parasite known as Tunga penetrans, which infiltrates the skin of humans. This parasite is a sand flea that usually appears in warm, tropical regions of Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean and parts of Asia.
Tungiasis is caused by sand fleas penetrating the skin, usually when people walk barefoot on soil contaminated with the eggs of these parasites.
The most common symptoms include intense itching, swelling, localized pain and the formation of small nodular lesions on the skin, which can become infected if not properly treated.
Diagnosis is made by assessment of the skin lesions and the detection of the sand flea or its remains under the skin.
Treatment involves removal of the parasite with sterile needles and disinfection of the wound. In complicated cases, topical and/or oral antiparasitics may be used to treat the infection. It is essential to maintain good personal hygiene and avoid walking barefoot in areas prone to sand fleas to prevent future infections.
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