Dirofilariasis

Dirofilariasis is a form of filariasis (see this term), caused by the filarial nematode of the genus <i>Dirofilaria</i> (including <i>Dirofilaria repens</i>, <i>Dirofilaria immitis</i>), which is transmitted by mosquitoes. The disease is characterized by the presence of subcutaneous nodules (or a conjunctival form that develops slowly and that can be painless to tender), edema and erythema at the site of parasite localization, a feeling of 'crawling' under the skin, and the ''Calabar'' swelling (similar to thatin loiasis (see this term). The latter may last a few days and recurrences are possible. Common localizations of dirofilaria are head and neck, most commonly in the periorbital region, the limbs and trunk.