DIROFILARIASIS (DIROFILARIA-IMMITIS)

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.