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Ocular filariasis: not strictly tropical
1Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, Nice, France.
Summary
A man experienced eye discomfort due to a Dirofilaria repens worm under his conjunctiva. Surgical removal of the parasite successfully treated the human infection, a rare occurrence.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Parasitology
- Veterinary Medicine
Background:
- Dirofilaria repens is a zoonotic filarial nematode typically found in canids and felids.
- Transmission to humans occurs via mosquito vectors, particularly in regions like the Mediterranean basin.
- While generally nonpathogenic in humans, ocular dirofilariasis presents unique clinical challenges.
Observation:
- A 65-year-old male presented with acute right eye discomfort.
- Clinical examination revealed a white, mobile worm situated beneath the temporal bulbar conjunctiva.
- The worm was successfully extracted for diagnostic purposes.
Findings:
- Parasitological analysis identified the extracted worm as Dirofilaria repens (subgenus Nochtiella).
- This case represents a rare instance of ocular dirofilariasis in a human.
- The patient experienced complete resolution of symptoms following surgical removal.
Implications:
- Ocular dirofilariasis, though uncommon, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of conjunctival masses or discomfort.
- Simple surgical excision is curative for subcutaneous or subconjunctival Dirofilaria repens infections.
- Public health awareness regarding mosquito-borne zoonotic diseases in endemic areas is crucial.