Human trichinosis and febrile myositis.
Trichinosis is a parasitic infection caused by nematodes of the genus Trichinella. It is acquired by the ingestion of undercooked meat containing cysts of Trichinella species from either a domestic or sylvatic animal. Although considered to be a re-emerging zoonosis, there is lack of awareness among clinicians regarding the presentation of the disease. We report the case of a 15 year old male presenting with febrile myositis. Radiological evaluation did not reveal any intramuscular abscess. Fever persisted and myositis progressed to involve other muscle groups Considering the epidemiological profile of the patient and other negative tests for infective causes, a suspicion of trichinosis was kept and serological tests along with muscle biopsy was done which was positive for Trichinella sp. Therapy was initiated with albendazole and prednisolone. He became afebrile on day 4 of therapy and myositis resolved gradually over 3 weeks. The patient was followed up for a period of two months after completion of therapy with no relapse of the disease. Further review of available literature revealed several cases of human trichinosis from the area of origin of the patient related to the practice of consumption of poorly prepared meat at social gatherings and at home.