Human dirofilariasis of the bladder.

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Urology
• Zoonotic Diseases

Background:

• Dirofilariasis, commonly known as heartworm disease in dogs, is caused by filarial nematodes.
• The parasite is endemic in the southern and southeastern United States.
• Human infections are uncommon as humans are unnatural hosts, but cases have increased in recent decades.

Observation:

• This report presents the first documented instance of dirofilariasis affecting the human urinary bladder.
• The patient presented with symptoms related to bladder involvement by the parasite.

Findings:

• Transurethral resection was performed as the treatment modality.
• The surgical intervention achieved complete eradication of the parasite from the bladder.
• Post-treatment follow-up showed no signs of disease recurrence.

Implications:

• This case highlights the expanding host range and clinical presentations of dirofilariasis in humans.
• Transurethral resection is presented as an effective and minimally invasive treatment for human bladder dirofilariasis.
• Increased awareness and diagnostic vigilance are crucial for recognizing this rare zoonotic infection.