Cutaneous dirofilariosis (Dirofilaria repens) in two imported dogs in Austria

Canine cutaneous dirofilariosis is caused by the nematode Dirofilaria repen s. This disease was diagnosed in two dogs that were originally imported fro m Hungary and Greece. The dogs suffered from subcutaneous skin nodules in t he thorakolumbal region. One nodule contained an adult worm with a length o f 8 cm. Microfilaremia was detected in one patient. It is concluded that du e to climate and presence of intermediate hosts this nematode can spread to Middle Europe. This is of interest for human health as D. repens can infec t humans.