Subconjunctival dirofilariasis: Case studies with review of literature

Abstract

Human dirofilariasis is an uncommon zoonotic parasitic infection caused by species of the genus Dirofilaria. Location of the worm is usually confined to the subcutaneous tissues of eyelids, fingers, cheeks and breasts. Ophthalmic involvement is usually periorbital, intraocular or of the eyelids. Subconjunctival localization is rarely observed. We report three cases of subconjunctival dirofilariasis in males, age ranges between 45 and 60 years. All the cases were caused by Dirofilaria repens. The worms were surgically removed under local anesthesia. The cases are discussed in the light of earlier reports on subconjunctival dirofilariasis. In view of frequent reports of dirofilariasis from Karnataka, considering the state endemic for dirofilarasis is also discussed.