Subcutaneous Dirofilariasis: A Zoonosis of Significance

Abstract

Accidental inoculation of dirofilarial worm by mosquitos into humans cause a zoonotic disease called dirofilariasis. Common sites of involvement are lungs, eyes and rarely subcutaneous areas. This is a case report of a 60-year-old woman who presented with facial swelling for the past 6 months. Ultra-sonogram revealed a cyst with worm like structures inside, which was excised surgically and sent for histopathology which confirmed the diagnosis with demonstration of Dirofilaria worm. This case report aims to remind clinicians not to overlook or misdiagnose rare conditions like dirofilariasis when evaluating subcutaneous swellings.

Keywords:

Zoonotic diseases, subcutaneous swellings, dirofilariasis, mosquito vector

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