DIROFILARIASIS

SYMPTOMS

In humans, D. immitis infections can cause coin-shaped lesions on chest x-rays, which are spots of inflammation induced by adult worms passing away in the pulmonary arteries. Cancer and other dangerous disorders can also result in coin lesions. 

The vast majority of human infections have been identified in normal individuals. This may display any of the following signs and symptoms:

• Chest pain and discomfort 
• Fever
• Pleural effusion
• Cough

D.immitis worms have been detected in humans in places other than the lungs, such as the eye, brain, and testicle. When D. tenuis and D. repens infection is revealed in humans, it is usually the source of nodules underneath the skin, but worms have been found in the conjunctiva on occasion.

So, if you are experiencing any of these signs, call your healthcare provider right away.

DIAGNOSIS 

The most prevalent approaches for diagnosing this condition in humans are tissue analysis from growths under the skin or spots of inflammation in the lung found during the clinical assessment of coin lesions on chest x-rays. Unfortunately, blood tests are presently ineffective in establishing the existence of dirofilariasis in humans.

TREATMENT

The only efficient therapy for Dirofilaria infection in humans is a surgical procedure to remove subcutaneous lumps and lung granulomas. Often, no medical intervention is required.

Dirofilariasis can also be avoided by mitigating mosquito bites in areas where mosquitoes may be carrying Dirofilaria larvae. This can be mitigated by not exposing your skin, using insect repellent, and keeping mosquitos out of your sleeping areas.