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Autochthonous Human Dirofilaria repens Infection in Austria.
Nora Geissler1, Johanna Ruff2, Julia Walochnik2
1Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria. Nora.geissler@meduniwien.ac.at.
Acta Parasitologica
|January 12, 2022
Summary
A rare case of Dirofilaria repens infection in Austria highlights the growing threat of parasitic diseases in Europe. Increased vigilance and diagnostics are crucial for healthcare professionals to manage emerging infections.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Veterinary Public Health
Background:
- Dirofilariosis, caused by Dirofilaria repens, is a mosquito-borne parasitic zoonosis predominantly affecting canines.
- Human infections are historically concentrated in Mediterranean regions but are increasingly reported across Central and Northern Europe.
Observation:
- A case of autochthonous human Dirofilaria repens infection is reported in a 56-year-old woman in Vienna, Austria.
- The infection presented as a subcutaneous nodule, a common clinical manifestation of D. repens.
Findings:
- The causative worm was surgically removed and identified using PCR and DNA sequencing.
- This represents the second documented autochthonous human D. repens case in Austria, indicating a northward expansion of the parasite's range.
Implications:
- The emergence of D. repens in non-endemic areas is linked to factors such as climate change and globalization.
- Healthcare professionals require heightened awareness of emerging parasitic infections for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.
