ENDEMIC SUBCUTANEOUS DIROFILARIA REPENS F ILARIASIS IN SOUTHERN FRANCE

Background. Human dirofilariosis is endemic in southern France. The ca usal agent is Dirofilaria repens transmitted to man by mosquitos. The human organism is an accidental host while the dog is the resevoir. Ap proximately 60 cases have been reported in France, mainly in southern continental areas and Corsica. Most cases involve subcutaneous and occ ular manifestations. Case report. A 47-year old woman living in the Va r department in southern france consulted for a subcutaneous nodule wi th the aspect of an epidermoid cyst. At incision, the nodule was found to contain a helminth found at parasite examination to tie Dirofilari a repens. Discussion. The prevalence of endemic subcutaneous dirofilar iosis is probably underestimated as the clinical expression is non-spe cific and spontaneous cure is common. The diagnosis of epidermoid cyst is frequently suggested. History taking does not reveal travel to int ertropical areas. The helminth is discovered when the nodule is opened , also providing successful cure.