A new concentration of human intestinal capillariasis on western Luzon.

A new concentration of 32 cases of human intestinal capillariasis is described. This subepidemic occurred 120 Km from the nearest previously reported cases and the disease is locally acquired. All but one patient ate raw food and all ingested the small freshwater fish Ambassis commersoni (bagsang). Although good results were obtained with a modified treatment schedule using thiabendazole, mebendazole proved to be easier to administer, was more rapid in action, and no side effects were experienced. The proposed pathological life cycle is reviewed. The need for more awareness of this potentially widespread disease amongst the professional community is discussed.