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Subconjunctival infection with Dirofilaria repens
Vikas Gautam1, I M Rustagi, Satyavir Singh
1Department of Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Rohtak, India. r_vg@yahoo.co.uk
Abstract:
Cases of zoonotic dirofilariasis infection, caused by Dirofilaria repens, occur widely throughout European, African, Middle Eastern, and Asian countries. The reports of this infection in humans in India are limited, and we herein report the case of a 23-year-old man who presented with subconjunctival swelling in the right eye with no local symptoms. A large nematode was visualized on examination and the intact worm was surgically removed. The parasite was identified as a male D. repens.
Insights
Zoonotic dirofilariasis infection, caused by Dirofilaria repens, is reported in a 23-year-old Indian man with subconjunctival eye swelling. Surgical removal confirmed the parasite as a male Dirofilaria repens, adding to limited Indian case reports.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary parasitology
- Human infectious diseases
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Zoonotic dirofilariasis, primarily caused by Dirofilaria repens, is prevalent in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
- Human infections with Dirofilaria repens are uncommon, with limited documented cases in India.
- This report details a rare instance of human dirofilariasis in the Indian subcontinent.
Observation:
- A 23-year-old male presented with subconjunctival swelling in his right eye.
- No significant local symptoms were reported by the patient.
- A large nematode was visualized within the conjunctiva during examination.
Findings:
- An intact nematode worm was successfully surgically removed from the subconjunctival space.
- Microscopic examination and identification confirmed the parasite as a male Dirofilaria repens.
- This case represents a rare occurrence of ocular dirofilariasis in India.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for Dirofilaria repens to cause zoonotic infections in diverse geographical regions, including India.
- Underscores the importance of considering dirofilariasis in the differential diagnosis of ocular and subconjunctival swellings, even in regions with limited reports.
- Reinforces the need for increased awareness and diagnostic vigilance for zoonotic parasitic infections in human and veterinary medicine.