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Zoonotic helminths affecting the human eye.
Domenico Otranto1, Mark L Eberhard
1Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica e Zootecnia, Università degli Studi di Bari, Valenzano, BA, Italy. d.otranto@veterinaria.uniba.it
Parasites & Vectors
|March 25, 2011
Summary
Zoonotic helminths infecting human eyes (HIE) cause blindness and socio-economic issues, particularly in developing nations. Understanding HIE biology, epidemiology, and clinical presentation is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Ophthalmology
- Parasitology
- Public Health
Background:
- Zoonoses, parasitic diseases transmissible from animals to humans, pose significant global health and socio-economic challenges.
- Human eye infections by helminths (HIE) can lead to severe visual impairment and blindness, impacting communities, especially in developing countries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To consolidate current knowledge on helminthic zoonoses affecting the human eye (HIE).
- To discuss the biology, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic approaches for HIE.
- To highlight the socio-economic impact and surgical management of these infections.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on helminthic zoonoses impacting human ocular tissues.
- Compilation of data on transmission routes, including vectors, food consumption, and environmental exposure.
- Analysis of clinical presentations, diagnostic challenges, and treatment strategies, including surgical interventions.
Main Results:
- HIE encompass nematodes, cestodes, and trematodes, transmitted via vectors, food, or environmental contact.
- Infections can manifest in external ocular tissues or the ocular globe, causing symptoms through direct localization or host immune responses.
- Data on HIE are limited, primarily consisting of case reports, underscoring the need for further research.
Conclusions:
- Helminthic zoonoses affecting the human eye represent a significant, yet underreported, cause of preventable blindness.
- Comprehensive understanding of HIE biology, transmission, and clinical features is essential for effective diagnosis and management.
- Further research and data collection are vital to address the public health implications of HIE globally.
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