chigoe

chigoe /chig·oe/ (chig´o) the flea, Tunga penetrans, of subtropical and tropical America and Africa; the pregnant female burrows into the skin of the feet, legs, or other part of the body, causing intense irritation and ulceration, sometimes leading to spontaneous amputation of a digit.

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chig·oe (chg)

n.

A small tropical flea (Tunga penetrans) the fertilized female of which burrows under the skin, frequently under the toenails, causing intense irritation and sores that may become severely infected. Also called jigger, sand flea.

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chigoe

the sand flea, Tunga penetrans, of tropical and subtropical America and Africa. Called also chigger or chigoe flea. Not to be confused with chigger mites. See also chigger.