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An update on toxocariasis in Reunion Island: a retrospective study
Fanny Rezungles1, Anissa Desmoulin1, Yatrika Koumar1
1Infectious Diseases Department, Reunion University Hospital, Saint-Pierre, 97410, France.
BMC Infectious Diseases
|July 22, 2025
Summary
Toxocariasis seroprevalence in Reunion Island has decreased significantly. Toxocara canis serology is increasingly valuable for diagnosing suspected infections, despite no significant difference in treatment improvement observed.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Toxocariasis is a globally prevalent parasitic infection with variable seroprevalence rates.
- Previous studies in Reunion Island indicated a high seroprevalence of 93% in the late 1980s.
- Updating epidemiological data and understanding patient profiles for Toxocara canis serology is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the current seroprevalence of Toxocara canis infection in Reunion Island.
- To characterize patients undergoing Toxocara canis serology at Reunion Island University Hospital.
- To assess the diagnostic utility of Toxocara canis serology in clinical practice.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of all patients undergoing Toxocara canis serology in 2021.
- Calculation of seroprevalence rates.
- Comparison of patient characteristics between seropositive and seronegative individuals.
Main Results:
- 126 patients underwent serology, primarily for ocular symptoms (47%) and eosinophilia (25%).
- A seroprevalence of 27% (34/126) was observed.
- Seropositive patients showed a trend towards treatment, but no significant difference in clinical improvement was noted.
Conclusions:
- A notable decrease in Toxocara canis seroprevalence has occurred over the last 30 years.
- Toxocara canis serology remains a relevant diagnostic tool for suspected cases of toxocariasis.
- Further research may explore factors influencing treatment response and clinical outcomes.
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