Human Dirofilariasis in Latvia - the First Case in Surgical Practice

Abstract

Though dirofilariasis in humans occurs rarely, the number of cases due to Dirofilaria repens has been increasing worldwide over the last decade. Climatic changes and animal migration extend geographic area of human dirofilariasis, now including Latvia. The diagnosis is based on histopathological features. Surgical excision is the only curative treatment. Practitioners should bear in mind the possibility of human dirofilariasis in residents of Latvia.