A case of filariasis diagnosed on gastric cytology

Cytological examination of gastric washings or brushing is a widely accepted technique used as a diagnostic aid in the detection of gastric malignancy. Occasionally, cytology may also provide valuable information concerning a variety of non-neoplastic disorders. This brief report is of the exceptional experience of finding numerous microfilariae of Loa loa type in a gastric lavage specimen. This observation led to appropriate further investigation and successful treatment.