Baylisascaris Procyonis Induced Diffuse Unilateral Subacute Neuroretinitis in New York City

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases
• Parasitology

Background:

• Diffuse unilateral subacute neuroretinitis (DUSN) is typically associated with raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis) infection in rural and suburban areas.
• Raccoon populations and potential for human infection exist in urban environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of Baylisascaris-induced DUSN in an urban setting (Brooklyn, New York City).
• To raise awareness among urban ophthalmologists about considering this etiology.
• To address misconceptions regarding Baylisascaris ocular larva migrans and neurotropism.

Main Methods:

• Case presentation of Baylisascaris-induced DUSN in an urban patient.
• Review of literature regarding Baylisascaris infection and DUSN.

Main Results:

• A case of DUSN secondary to Baylisascaris procyonis infection was identified in Brooklyn, NYC.
• The case highlights the potential for urban exposure to infected raccoons.
• Common misconceptions about concomitant neurologic disease and larval neurotropism were noted.

Conclusions:

• Ophthalmologists in urban areas should consider Baylisascaris-induced DUSN in their differential diagnoses.
• Exposure to infected raccoons can occur in urban environments, challenging traditional risk area assumptions.
• Baylisascaris ocular larva migrans-DUSN does not typically involve neurologic disease, and larval neurotropism is not a universal feature.