[Toxocariasis in adults]

Abstract

Purpose: Toxocariasis is a widespread zoonotic parasitosis that is frequent in France. It is due to the presence of larvae of roundworms belonging to the genus Toxocara in the human body. Clinical signs are often non-specific. The disease can be asymptomatic or can lead to death. Toxocariasis can be thought of because of clinical signs or presence of hypereosinophilia, but the diagnosis is made by specific serology. Since there is no consensus to date regarding treatment, prevention is of paramount importance.

Current knowledge and keypoints: Recent studies point out the frequency of this parasitic disease that is often asymptomatic. The serological diagnosis remains the main tool for the diagnosis of toxocariasis.

Future prospects and projects: Further studies on toxocariasis should focus on the prevalence of this disease in French population regarding the probability of infection: living in the countryside, food habits, hygiene and presence of dogs in the neighborhood. Tools of the biological diagnosis (mainly serological techniques) should be improved, but, especially, studies should focus on the evaluation of specific treatment in order to give unquestionable guidelines on this point.