Dirofilariasis presenting as subcutaneous nodule: a case report and review of literature

Abstract

Dirofilariasis is an emerging rare zoonotic disease in which man is a dead-end host and it is transmitted by mosquitoes. The cases of dirofilariasis are increasing over the past few years. Several species of the genera Culex spp., Aedes spp., and Anopheles spp. are involved in the transmission of this parasite. These species represent a constant risk of infection because they feed on both animal and human hosts. For this reason, dirofilariasis is considered an emerging public health problem because of its zoonotic potential. Most of the cases are ocular and subcutaneous presentations are rare. Here, we present a rare case of dirofilariasis presenting as a subcutaneous swelling near the knee joint. Dirofilariasis should be kept in mind as one of the differential diagnosis of subcutaneous nodule. In endemic areas, it can present in atypical forms like rash similar to this case; therefore, clinicians should be aware about this disease.