Dirofilariasis in France: a case in Languedoc in an HIV-seropositive patient
Basset, D.; Villain, M.; Bastien, P.; Taupin, P.; Jarry, D.M.; Dedet, J.P.
Presse Medicale 25(30): 1372-1375
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0755-4982 PMID: 8958857 Document Number: 465697
Dirofilaria repens is an endemic canine parasite in the Mediterranean area. Human infestation is rare. We observed a case in an HIV-positive patient who presented an ocular filaria which was successfully removed under local anesthesia. In man, filariae may be expulsed without a parasite cycle or complete a growth cycle, depending on the individual's immunological status. The disease has been known in southern France for several centuries, mainly in lagoons near the Mediterranean seaside. A review of the literature however shows that observation of clinical cases is rare, only 46 cases having been reported to date. Outcome is favorable.