Related Experiment Videos
Dirofilaria immitis: a rare, increasing cause of pulmonary nodules
C P Nicholson1, M S Allen, V F Trastek
1Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905.
Abstract:
Dirofilariasis is an unusual but increasing cause of solitary pulmonary nodules. In this study, we reviewed the entire experience with dirofilariasis at our institution. Five such patients were identified. In all patients, the Dirofilaria immitis infection manifested as a solitary pulmonary nodule, and all patients underwent thoracotomy for diagnosis. None required systemic treatment. D. immitis is found in dog, cat, wolf, coyote, and fox populations throughout the United States, but the highest concentrations have been noted in the eastern, southeastern, and southern coastal states. The distribution of human cases of D. immitis infection has a similar pattern. Pulmonary dirofilariasis should be included in the differential diagnosis of peripheral noncalcified pulmonary nodules, especially in endemic areas.
Insights
Dirofilariasis, a parasitic infection, increasingly causes solitary pulmonary nodules. This condition, caused by Dirofilaria immitis, requires surgical diagnosis but no systemic treatment for lung nodules.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Dirofilariasis is an emerging parasitic zoonosis.
- It is caused by Dirofilaria immitis, a filarial nematode found in domestic and wild canids.
- Pulmonary dirofilariasis is an uncommon manifestation in humans.
Observation:
- A review identified five cases of pulmonary dirofilariasis at an institution.
- All cases presented as solitary pulmonary nodules.
- Patients underwent thoracotomy for diagnosis.
Findings:
- Dirofilaria immitis infection manifested as solitary pulmonary nodules in all reviewed patients.
- No systemic treatment was required for these pulmonary manifestations.
- Geographic distribution of Dirofilaria immitis in animal populations in the US correlates with human case distribution.
Implications:
- Pulmonary dirofilariasis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of peripheral noncalcified pulmonary nodules.
- Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are key for managing this condition.
- Awareness of endemic areas is crucial for clinicians diagnosing pulmonary nodules.