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Ocular thelaziasis in Thailand: a case report
Summary
A rare case of ocular thelaziasis, an eye infection caused by Thelazia callipaeda eyeworms, was diagnosed in a young boy. The same eyeworm species was found in local dogs, suggesting a potential transmission route.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Ophthalmology
- Parasitology
- Public Health
Background:
- Ocular thelaziasis is a parasitic infection of the eye caused by eyeworms of the genus Thelazia.
- Thelazia callipaeda, also known as the oriental eyeworm, is a nematode that infects the eyes of various mammals, including humans.
- This case highlights the zoonotic potential of Thelazia callipaeda and its presence in Phetchabun province.
Observation:
- A one-year-old boy presented with ocular thelaziasis in his right conjunctival cul-de-sac.
- Eleven Thelazia callipaeda worms were removed from the affected eye.
- Parasitological examination of seven worms (3 males, 4 females) confirmed the species identification based on morphological characteristics.
Findings:
- Morphological analysis confirmed the eyeworms as Thelazia callipaeda.
- The identification was based on specific anatomical features, including the vulva position, caudal papillae, and spicule characteristics.
- A subsequent survey identified Thelazia callipaeda in dogs residing near the patient's home.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering ocular thelaziasis in the differential diagnosis of eye infections, especially in endemic areas.
- The identification of the same eyeworm species in both the human patient and domestic dogs suggests a potential zoonotic transmission cycle.
- Further investigation into the transmission dynamics and public health implications of Thelazia callipaeda in this region is warranted.