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Angiostrongyliasis or Rat Lungworm Disease: a Perspective From Hawai'i

  • Tropical Parasitology (A Sanchez, Section Editor)
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Angiostrongyliasis is contracted by the ingestion of or exposure to the zoonotic parasite Angiostrongylus cantonensis, which requires two hosts to complete its life cycle. Rats are known to be the definitive hosts and mollusks are intermediate hosts. It is the intermediate host, or infected paratenic hosts that can pass the infective stage of the disease to humans and other susceptible animals. The purpose of this review is to examine the growing threat of A. cantonensis and its consequences, with particular emphasis on Hawai'i.

Recent Findings

The increase in disease cases appears to correlate with the migration of the mollusk Parmarion martensi (semi-slug) in Hawai'i. The semi-slug is a very effective host because it carries a heavy burden of the parasite. Rats in Hawai'i also carry heavy parasite burdens. Human diagnosis is difficult due to varied incubation times, multitude of symptoms which can mimic other illnesses, and lack of a low-risk effective diagnostic. Treatment varies with the severity of the symptoms.

Summary

The introduction and proliferation of the invasive species A. cantonensis, along with a most efficient intermediate host P. martensi, has resulted in an increase in angiostrongyliasis in Hawai'i. In Hawai'i, consumption of local produce is encouraged and the use of rainwater harvesting is a necessity for many on Hawai'i Island, both of which elevate the risk of acquiring angiostrongyliasis. A better understanding of how to best reduce the risk of infection is needed through comprehensive research and community education.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hilo, HI, USA

    Susan I. Jarvi & Kathleen Howe

  2. College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Hilo, HI, USA

    Patricia Macomber

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  1. Susan I. Jarvi
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  2. Kathleen Howe
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Correspondence to Susan I. Jarvi.

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Jarvi, S.I., Howe, K. & Macomber, P. Angiostrongyliasis or Rat Lungworm Disease: a Perspective From Hawai'i. Curr Trop Med Rep 5, 59–66 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40475-018-0132-z

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