Haycocknema perplexum

Haycocknema perplexum are nematodes which reside in tissues under the skin or in blood vessels.[1] The origin of these parasites and their natural hosts are not known at this time.[1] This group is around 8% of nematode species which affect vertebrates.[1] Clinical symptoms of this parasite include eosinophilia and high levels of creatine kinase.[1] While rare with only thirteen documented cases, all originating in Australia,[2] this parasite can become fatal if untreated due to the muscles of the respiratory system becoming unable to function properly.[1]

Haycocknema perplexum
Scientific classification
Domain:	Eukaryota
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Nematoda
Class:	Enoplea
Order:	Muspiceida
Family:	Robertdollfusiidae
Genus:	Haycocknema Spratt, Beveridge, Andrews & Dennett, 1999
Species:	H. perplexum
Binomial name
Haycocknema perplexum Spratt, Beveridge, Andrews & Dennett, 1999

The first case was documented in 1998, and no cases in non-human animals have been reported as of 2022. Only one documented death from complications of infection with the parasite has been recorded.[2]

The treatment for this parasite is 400 mg of Abendazole.[3] This broad spectrum medication is an antihelmintic drug that can treat diseases by impairing the parasite's ability to absorb glucose, resulting in its death.[3]