[Ocular toxocariasis. Apropos of a case]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Immunology
• Parasitology

Background:

• Ocular toxocariasis is a parasitic infection that can cause significant visual impairment.
• Bilateral ocular involvement is less common but can present with diverse clinical manifestations.

Observation:

• A case of ocular toxocariasis with global bilateral eye involvement, including cornea, iris, lens, inflammatory granuloma, and hyalitis.
• Immunologic evaluation revealed negative serum tests but positive aqueous humor tests for antibodies.
• Elevated IgE levels in aqueous humor compared to serum suggested localized antibody production.

Findings:

• The study identified ocular toxocariasis with extensive bilateral ocular pathology.
• Evidence of local antibody production within the eye was demonstrated through IgE levels.
• Associated iron deficiency anemia and intestinal mucosal atrophy resolved after iron deficiency treatment.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering ocular toxocariasis in bilateral eye inflammation.
• Understanding localized immune responses in the eye is crucial for diagnosis and management.
• The resolution of systemic symptoms after treating iron deficiency suggests a potential link or co-occurrence.