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Cutaneous dirofilariasis presenting as an eyelid swelling
Shrutakirthi D Shenoi1, Pramod Kumar, Stephanie P Johnston
1Department of Skin & STD, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, India. shru12@yahoo.com
Tropical Doctor
|June 19, 2009
Summary
Dirofilariasis, a parasitic worm infection, can spread to humans via mosquito bites. This case highlights a rare instance of unilateral eyelid swelling caused by Dirofilaria repens in a 54-year-old woman.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Parasitology
- Human Health
Background:
- Dirofilariasis is a zoonotic filarial disease primarily affecting animals.
- Transmission to humans occurs through infected mosquito vectors.
- Dirofilaria repens is a common species found in Europe and Africa.
Observation:
- A 54-year-old female presented with unilateral eyelid swelling.
- The swelling was diagnosed as a consequence of Dirofilaria repens infection.
- This represents a rare manifestation of human dirofilariasis.
Findings:
- Microscopic examination confirmed the presence of Dirofilaria repens.
- The eyelid swelling was directly attributed to the filarial parasite.
- The case underscores the potential for ocular dirofilariasis.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering zoonotic parasitic infections in clinical diagnosis.
- Emphasizes the need for increased awareness of Dirofilaria repens transmission in non-endemic areas.
- Suggests further research into the clinical spectrum and diagnostic challenges of human dirofilariasis.
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