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[Eosinophilic pleural effusion by dirofilariasis].
Takashi Ogasawara1, Kengo Murata, Ken Iesato
1Division of Respiratory Disease, Seirei Hamamatsu Hospital, 2-12-12 Sumiyoshi, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 430-8558, Japan.
Summary
A parasitic infection caused eosinophilic pleural effusion in a man presenting with chest pain. Diagnosis was confirmed via antibody testing, and the condition resolved spontaneously, highlighting the need for careful observation.
Area of Science:
- Medical Diagnostics
- Parasitology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Eosinophilic pleural effusion is a rare condition often linked to parasitic infections.
- Dirofilariasis, a parasitic disease transmitted by mosquitoes, can manifest with pleuropulmonary symptoms.
Observation:
- A 44-year-old male presented with right chest pain and was found to have right-sided pleural effusion.
- Chest imaging revealed passive atelectasis secondary to the effusion, with no other lung abnormalities.
- Analysis of the pleural fluid showed a high eosinophil count, suggesting a parasitic etiology.
Findings:
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) confirmed dirofilariasis as the cause of the eosinophilic pleural effusion.
- The patient's pleural effusion resolved spontaneously.
- Anti-Dirofilaria immitis antibody levels decreased following the resolution of symptoms.
Implications:
- This case underscores dirofilariasis as a potential cause of eosinophilic pleural effusion in endemic areas.
- Prompt diagnosis through serological testing is crucial for managing parasitic pleural effusions.
- Spontaneous resolution is possible, but long-term monitoring is recommended for patients diagnosed with dirofilariasis-induced pleural effusion.