An eye-catching acanthocephalan

Abstract

Acanthocephala are endoparasitic worms with a characteristic retractile proboscis bearing rows of thorny hooks. They have been found in all classes of vertebrates; however, human infection appears to be rare and accidental. To date, all reported cases of acanthocephalans in humans have involved the gastrointestinal tract. Here we report for the first time the highly unusual finding of an immature acanthocephalan retrieved from a patient's eye. © 2009 The Authors. Journal Compilation.