Management of visceral larva migrans in children - A review of prolonged albendazole treatment protocols
Main Article Content
Abstract
Visceral larva migrans (VLM) caused by Toxocara spp. is one of the most common parasitic diseases in children, particularly in developing countries. However, there is currently no consensus on the optimal treatment regimen, especially for pediatric patients. This study provides a comprehensive review and analysis of the specific antiparasitic drugs used in treatment, including albendazole, mebendazole, thiabendazole, ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine, and nitazoxanide, with a particular focus on the efficacy and safety of prolonged albendazole therapy. Additionally, the study updates current treatment protocols implemented in various countries, including the official 2022 guidelines from the Vietnamese Ministry of Health. The review also discusses the role of corticosteroid co-administration and other supportive treatments in severe cases (neurological and ocular forms). This is the first systematic review that fully synthesizes treatment regimens for Toxocara infections in children, integrating data from both international and national studies. The findings aim to provide a foundation for standardizing treatment approaches in clinical practice in Vietnam.
Article Details
Keywords
Toxocara, ABZ, visceral larva migrans, children, prolonged treatment regimen, corticosteroid
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