Subcutaneous human dirofilariasis : relevance of this emerging zoonosis in otorhinolaryngology

Dr. Nambiar Sapna Sreedharan; Dr Faseela C; Dr Sunilkumar K P

Volume : VII, Issue : XII, December - 2018

Subcutaneous human dirofilariasis : relevance of this emerging zoonosis in otorhinolaryngology

Dr. Nambiar Sapna Sreedharan, Dr Faseela C, Dr Sunilkumar K P

Abstract :

Objective : The aim of this study is to highlight the need to be aware of an emerging zoonosis that could be the cause for common presentations in otorhinolaryngology. There is a need to think out of the box for diagnosing some common presentations where the causative agent is the nematode Dirofilaria.

Human dirofilariasis is an emerging zoonosis caused by the filarial nematode of genus Dirofilaria. Humans are accidental dead end hosts wherein the infective larvae injected through mosquito bites perish before attaining maturity.

Study Design : This is a retrospective study where we present five such cases that presented to the department of ENT in a tertiary care centre over a period of one year.

Results : The study reveals that a high index of suspicion in patients presenting with subcutaneous nodules especially in an endemic area helps in early diagnosis which is mainly assisted by radiological evaluation. The diagnosis enables prompt treatment which is complete surgical excision and confirmation by histopathology.

Conclusion : The common clinical manifestations of human dirofilariasis is either as subcutaneous nodules in various regions in the upper part of the body or as lung parenchymatous lesions. There is an increase in the number of cases of subcutaneous dirofilariasis with varied presentations in otorhinolaryngology. The study well emphasises the avoidance of unnecessary investigations once appropraitely diagnosed with role for further studies to understand the aetiopathogenesis and outline definitive guidelines with management strategies.