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Intralenticular gnathostomiasis: A rare parasitic invasion
Haripriya Aravind1, Anahita Shroff2, Anand Rajendran3
1Department of Cataract and IOL Services, Aravind Eye Hospital, Noombal, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Indian Journal of Ophthalmology
|July 28, 2025
Summary
This case documents the first reported instance of a Gnathostoma spinigerum larva migrating into the human eye lens. Surgical extraction was successful, highlighting the importance of considering parasitic infections in ocular diagnoses.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Intraocular gnathostomiasis, caused by Gnathostoma spinigerum, is an exceptionally rare parasitic infection.
- Larval migration can affect various body parts, leading to significant morbidity, with intralenticular localization being extremely unique.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the clinical, diagnostic, and surgical management of a unique case of intralenticular gnathostomiasis.
- To provide educational value for ophthalmologists, parasitologists, and primary care physicians regarding parasitic eye infections.
Main Methods:
- Detailed patient history including dietary habits and travel exposure.
- Clinical examination including slit-lamp microscopy and anterior segment-optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT).
- Surgical extraction of the intraocular worm and subsequent histopathological confirmation.
Main Results:
- A live Gnathostoma spinigerum larva was identified within the crystalline lens of a patient presenting with ocular and gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Successful surgical removal of the worm in toto was achieved.
- Histopathology confirmed the species as Gnathostoma spinigerum.
Conclusions:
- This case represents the first documented instance of intralenticular gnathostomiasis globally.
- Accurate diagnosis relies on thorough history-taking and advanced imaging techniques.
- Safe surgical extraction and appropriate postoperative care are crucial for visual recovery in such rare parasitic ocular infections.
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