ACTUALIZACIÓN CLÍNICA-EPIDEMIOLÓGICA: INFECCIÓN HUMANA POR DIROFILARIA IMMITIS Y OTRAS FILARIAS ZOONÓTICAS

Abstract

In the zoonotic heartworm, the life cycle is not completed and microfilariae are held within the uterus of the female, do not circulate, except Dipetalonema. These accidental infections to humans even though they are not so serious, except for Brugia spp. in patients with immunosuppression, they should be present as differential diagnostic of the human filariasis in endemic regions. The heartworm should be considered a health problem, as it has been often found in the heart and lungs of humans in USA, Japan and Australia. It is a differential diagnosis of neoplasia and conditions that require chest surgery. In Ecuador, as in other Latin American countries, remains the life cycle of heartworm in animals. The prevalence of infection with D. immitis in the canine population is high as well as the proliferation of mosquitoes. There are great under-registration in the diagnosis of this parasitosis. Specialists should take into account this infection in patients with injury only in the lung (coin lesion), must be microscopic studies of the nodule in search of the immature larva. The use of techniques such as molecular biology and inmunoserodiagnostico, is essential. Was carried out an in-depth review of published articles on the characteristics, clinical manifestations and current situation of the heartworm zoonotic, especially of Dirofilaria immitis and his response in human beings, as well as its current prevalence to level global and on the American continent. It is a neglected health problem and known but shocking consequences.