Pulmonary coin lesion caused by Dirofilaria immitis – a report of two cases with a minireview of the literature

Jerše, Maja

doi:10.5114/pjp.2022.125821

Cited by 1 publication

(1 citation statement)

References 26 publications

(32 reference statements)

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“…Clinically, HPD should be considered in the differential diagnosis of subpleural coin lesions in the lower pulmonary lobes. Key risk factors include advanced age, canine ownership, and outdoor activities predisposing individuals to mosquito bites [ 2 , 28 – 31 ].…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Emerging human pulmonary dirofilariasis in Hungary: a single center experience

Kuthi,

Zombori,

Tiszlavicz

et al. 2024

Diagn Pathol

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Background Human pulmonary dirofilariasis (HPD) is rare in Hungary, and it stems from Dirofilaria immitis, mainly transmitted through mosquito bites, with dogs as primary hosts. Despite its prevalence in veterinary settings, human cases are infrequent. Historically, Mediterranean countries report most HPD cases, but sporadic cases occur in temperate European regions. Radiologically, HPD often manifests in a non-specific manner, resembling pulmonary neoplasms, leading to unnecessary surgery and patient distress. Methods This study presents a notable case series from Hungary, encompassing a 12-year period, documenting 5 instances of HPD with the aim to provide baseline estimate of occurrence for future comparison. Results Among the patients studied, all were of middle age (median: 52 years, range: 37–69) and exhibited tumor-like lesions, primarily localized to the right lung, necessitating lobectomy or wedge resection. Histological examination consistently revealed a necrotizing granulomatous response characterized by remnants of helminths, without the presence of ovules. Furthermore, rigorous diagnostic procedures excluded other potential infectious agents through specialized staining techniques. Polymerase chain reaction analysis definitively confirmed the diagnosis of HPD in each case. Conclusions This case series highlights HPD as a seldom zoonosis, with a probable escalation in its occurrence within temperate regions. Therefore, clinicians should maintain a heightened awareness of HPD in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary coin lesions. Early recognition and diagnosis are paramount for appropriate management and prevention of potential complications associated with this increasingly recognized infectious entity.

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Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%