Albendazole ointment: a potentially safe, painless, and effective therapy for cutaneous larva migrans during pregnancy.

OBJECTIVES

We report two cases of cutaneous larva migrans in pregnant women.

METHODS

Due to pregnancy, systemic therapy was not considered. Limited efficacy of cryotherapy and unavailability of topical thiabendazole led to the in-office preparation of 10% albendazole ointment.

RESULTS

Application of this compound thrice daily under occlusion for 10 days led to complete resolution without recurrence. No safety signals were reported during pregnancy follow-up and until birth.

CONCLUSION

Topical albendazole may be an effective, safe, and painless treatment of cutaneous larva migrans. Larger studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety, though previous experience supports its use.