Microfilaria in Liver Aspirate: A Rare Finding

Abstract

Filariasis caused by Wuchereria bancrofti is a disease of tropical country like India. The detection is conventionally by demonstration of microfilariae in the peripheral blood smear. However, microfilariae can be incidentally detected in fine needle aspirates of various lesions. Although microfilariae have been reported in cytological specimens of many organs, but it is extremely rare to find microfilaria in cytological smears of liver aspirates [1]. We hereby report a rare case of microfilaria in liver aspirates of a 37 year old male who presented with yellowish discoloration of eyes, urine and malena. Radiological investigations were suggestive of nodular regeneration and hyperplasia in liver. Ultrasound (USG) guided aspirates yielded microfilariae in liver aspirate cytology smears. A final impression of filariasis was made.