Angiostrongyliasis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Angiostrongyliasis?
A primary care doctor is usually the first stop and can evaluate symptoms, order tests, and provide supportive care. Because this infection is rare and can affect the nervous system, they often refer patients to an infectious disease doctor, who treats parasitic infections, or a neurologist, who treats brain and nerve conditions.
What it is
Angiostrongyliasis is a rare infection caused by a tiny roundworm called Angiostrongylus, a parasite , an organism that lives inside another living thing and takes nutrients from it. People pick it up by eating raw or undercooked snails, slugs, or contaminated food. There are two main forms: one affects the brain and its coverings, the other the intestines.
Symptoms
The most common form in the United States affects the brain. Symptoms usually start within one to three weeks after exposure: bad headache, stiff neck, tingling or painful skin, low fever, nausea, and vomiting. The intestinal form, more common elsewhere, causes belly pain, vomiting, and fever. Some people have only mild problems or none at all.
Causes and who gets it
The infection comes from eating raw or undercooked snails or slugs, or food touched by their slime, such as unwashed lettuce. It is most common in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, including Hawaii. Travelers, gardeners, and small children face higher risk.
How doctors diagnose it
Doctors ask about symptoms and whether the person ate raw snails, slugs, or unwashed produce. Blood tests can look for signs of infection but do not always confirm it. A spinal tap can show high numbers of a white blood cell called eosinophils, which supports the diagnosis, although the parasite itself is rarely found in the fluid. A CT scan can help rule out other causes.
Treatment
There is no single cure, and many cases improve on their own over weeks. Treatment is mostly supportive: pain relievers, medicines for nausea, and sometimes steroids to lower inflammation around the brain. Doctors may try parasite-killing medicines, though these can worsen symptoms at first. Most people recover fully.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you have a bad headache, stiff neck, fever, or vomiting, especially within a few weeks after eating raw or undercooked snails, slugs, or raw produce. If symptoms are severe, such as trouble staying awake, seek care right away.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor, who charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, can be a good first contact. Longer appointments make it easier to take a careful history and coordinate testing. A concierge doctor works similarly but usually costs more. Mild cases may be managed directly; serious ones are referred to a specialist with follow-up coordinated.
Common questions
Can angiostrongyliasis spread between people?
No. The parasite does not pass from person to person. It only spreads through eating contaminated snails, slugs, or food.
How can I lower my risk?
Avoid eating raw or undercooked snails and slugs, and wash fresh produce carefully. Wash hands after gardening or handling snails. In areas where the parasite is common, check leafy vegetables for hidden slugs.
Is there a vaccine?
No. There is no vaccine for this infection. Prevention relies on safe food handling and avoiding raw snails and slugs.
How long does recovery take?
Most people with the brain form improve over several weeks, though headaches may last longer for some. Recovery times differ from person to person.
Sources
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center - Angiostrongyliasis
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - CDC - DPDx - Angiostrongyliasis
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
