Human dirofilariasis

Abstract

Although canine dirofilariasis has been recognized for over 300 years human dirofilariasis has received relatively little attention. Although human beings are dead-end hosts they can become infected and develop lesions associated with infection. Although these lesions are typically benign they may be misdiagnosed as more important disease and prompt unnecessary diagnostic procedures with attendant cost, discomfort and morbidity. In heavily endemic areas human dirofilariasis should be considered as a differential diagnosis for solitary pulmonary "coin" lesions. More widespread serologic screening and epidemiologic surveys are necessary to ascertain the importance of human dirofilariasis.