The parasitic infestation Dirofilariasis, caused by Dirofilaria immiti
s, displays very varied symptoms. The parasite and its epidemiology ar
e described. The detailed study of the parasite's pathogenesis allows
an understanding of the varied nature of the symptoms. Several forms h
ave been identified: cardiac form, vena cava syndrome, coagulation pro
blems, pulmonary embolism, neurological forms, ischaemic myopathy, ocu
lar forms, cutaneous forms and subclinical forms. It is therefore nece
ssary to have access to a laboratory diagnosis (to show and identify m
icrofilaments and to perform serological analyses). However, complemen
tary examinations such as electrocardiography, radiography and echogra
phy provide useful information. Treatment and prophylaxis are also des
cribed.