Live intraocular dirofilaria causing multifocal choroiditis

To report a rare case of live intraocular Dirofilaria causing anterior uveitis and multifocal choroiditis.

Observational case report.

A 43-year-old, healthy, Asian Indian woman presented with complaints of pain, redness, floaters, and decreased vision in the right eye. Slit lamp examination revealed a vigorously moving live intraocular worm in the anterior chamber. Indirect ophthalmoscopy showed active multifocal choroiditis in the posterior pole with retinal pigment epithelial tracts and chorioretinal scars in the periphery. Surgical removal of the worm from the anterior chamber was done immediately. The patient was then treated with diethylcarbamazine citrate along with topical steroids.

In endemic countries, in a patient with multifocal choroiditis, one should look for retinal pigment epithelial tracts in the retina to rule out parasitic infestation like Dirofilaria. Careful examination, prompt diagnosis, and early treatment can reduce ocular morbidity.