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Human subcutaneous dirofilariasis: A diagnostic dilemma
Parasmita Das Choudhury1, Dina Raja2, Vaishali Sarma2
1Department of Microbiology, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed Medical College and Hospital, Barpeta, Assam, India.
Tropical Parasitology
|October 20, 2023
Summary
Human dirofilariasis, a rare parasitic infection, is increasingly reported in India. This case highlights subcutaneous dirofilariasis in Assam, suggesting it as an emerging zoonotic disease in the region.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Zoonotic Diseases
- Medical Entomology
Background:
- Human dirofilariasis is an uncommon parasitic zoonosis caused by filarial worms of the genus Dirofilaria.
- Humans act as aberrant hosts, primarily infected by Dirofilaria repens and Dirofilaria immitis.
- Ocular and subcutaneous dirofilariasis are the main forms reported in India.
Observation:
- A case of human subcutaneous dirofilariasis is reported in a 63-year-old male from Assam, India.
- The infection affected the neck region, presenting as a subcutaneous manifestation.
- This represents a rare occurrence of subcutaneous dirofilariasis in this geographical area.
Findings:
- The case confirms the presence of human subcutaneous dirofilariasis in Assam.
- The etiological agent was identified as a Dirofilaria species.
- This finding expands the known geographical distribution of human dirofilariasis.
Implications:
- This case suggests that human dirofilariasis, particularly subcutaneous, may be an emerging zoonotic threat in Assam.
- Increased surveillance and diagnostic awareness are recommended to detect further cases.
- Understanding the transmission dynamics is crucial for public health interventions.
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