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Tungiasis — DTM&H MCQ

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HardDermatological tropical conditionsTungiasisDTM&H

A barefoot child has painful periungual papules with central black dots caused by embedded Tunga fleas. Which care package best addresses the current lesions and recurrence risk?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: DUse sterile flea extraction with wound care and reinfestation prevention

The best answer is “Use sterile flea extraction with wound care and reinfestation prevention”. Tungiasis care combines removal by a sterile technique, management of bacterial complications, tetanus assessment and prevention through shoes and improved floors or animal/environmental control. Praziquantel targets trematodes, household permethrin protocols fit scabies rather than embedded sand fleas, fasciotomy is inappropriate without compartment or necrotising disease, and inaction risks secondary infection, deformation and impaired mobility.

Reference: WHO, Tungiasis fact sheet: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/tungiasis