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There is a worm in my eye! Ocular dirofilariasis
Andrea Montesel1, Anna Bendinelli1, Michele Figus1
1Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular Pathology and of Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
European Journal of Ophthalmology
|October 2, 2018
Summary
Ocular dirofilariasis, a rare zoonotic infection, was diagnosed in a patient in Central Italy. Prompt surgical removal of the Dirofilaria repens worm resolved symptoms, highlighting the need for increased awareness of this emergent parasitic disease.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Parasitology
- Zoonosis
Background:
- Ocular dirofilariasis is a rare parasitic infection caused by Dirofilaria species.
- This case report details an instance in Pisa, Tuscany, Central Italy.
- A review of previous Italian ocular dirofilariasis cases is included.
Observation:
- A 67-year-old male presented with recurrent conjunctivitis symptoms.
- Slit-lamp examination revealed a cystic swelling containing a motile worm under the conjunctiva.
- Surgical excision successfully removed the parasite.
Findings:
- The excised worm was identified as Dirofilaria repens.
- The patient experienced complete symptom resolution post-surgery.
- No recurrence of ocular discomfort was noted.
Implications:
- Ocular dirofilariasis can be misdiagnosed due to atypical presentations.
- Dirofilaria repens represents an emergent zoonotic threat in Europe.
- Accurate case reporting is crucial for epidemiological assessment and public health awareness.
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