Latent and chronic infections imported from Southeast Asia

Abstract

This review is intended to remind physicians of exotic infections with latency of at least 1 yr that could cause illness in refugees or USA citizens exposed in Southeast Asia. Tuberculosis, melioidosis and leprosy are the major chronic infections of bacterial origin. Intestinal protozoa, roundworms and flatowrms are considered with regard pathogenic, potential and duration of infection. Malaria, filariasis and schistosomiasis may be seen on occasion. Paragonimiasis and Chinese liver fluke infections are more common and may simulate other less exotic diseases.