Work

Autochthonous human Dirofilaria repens infection in Latvia: a case report supported by retrospective canine surveillance data

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Dirofilariasis, a vector-borne disease caused by nematodes of the genus Dirofilaria , is a growing concern in both veterinary and human medicine. While historically endemic to Mediterranean regions, Dirofilaria repens has expanded to southern and eastern Europe, including the Baltic states, likely due to global warming and the movement of infected dogs. This study presents the first officially recorded case of D. repens infection in a Latvian patient with no history of international travel. A subcutaneous pseudocyst located near the lacrimal sac was surgically removed, and histological examination confirmed the presence of D. repens . The clinical case highlights diagnostic challenges, including nonspecific symptoms, ineffective empirical treatments, and the necessity for surgical intervention to confirm the diagnosis. Despite the zoonotic and emerging impact of D. repens , it remains underresearched compared with Dirofilaria immitis . The lack of centralized data collection and interdisciplinary collaboration complicates diagnosis, treatment, and epidemiological monitoring. Greater awareness and preventive measures targeting human and canine populations are essential to mitigate the increasing incidence and spread of this neglected parasitic disease.

Source: Parasitology Research

DOI: 10.1007/s00436-026-08761-8