Unveiling the Zoonotic Significance of Toxocariasis in Humans: The Role of Toxocara canis

Abstract

Toxocariasis is a zoonotic disease caused by the parasite Toxocara canis, with significant effects on human health. This article provided a comprehensive overview of the importance of complications of Toxocara canis infection. The introduction highlighted the relevance of zoonotic diseases and introduced toxocariasis as a specific example. The subsequent sections delved into toxocariasis, covering its transmission, lifecycle, host specificity, and primary sources of human infection. The epidemiology section presented the global prevalence and distribution of toxocariasis at 11.1% (95% CI: 10.6–11.7%), emphasizing high-risk groups and geographical factors contributing to illness. Detailed information was provided regarding the clinical manifestations of toxocariasis, including variations in disease severity and potential complications. Symptoms of visceral toxocariasis include fever, fatigue, coughing, wheezing, or abdominal pain. The diagnostic methods include laboratory methods (serological testing and western blot) and molecular techniques (PCR), and clinical methods (chest X-ray and CT scan). The prevention and control section outlined strategies for prevention, highlighting the significance of public health measures and awareness campaigns. The One Health approach has recognized the interconnections between human, animal, and environmental health. It has highlighted the necessity of cooperative actions to prevent the spread of diseases that can be transmitted between animals and humans. Future directions need to highlight ongoing research and advancements, including improved diagnostic tools, targeted therapies, risk assessment, and international collaboration. The conclusion reinforces the importance of understanding and addressing Toxocara canis infection on human health. Adopting a One Health approach and implementing effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies can reduce the burden of toxocariasis, leading to improved health outcomes for humans and animals.

Розповсюдження Серопозитивності До Токсакарної Інфекції У Людей У М. Запоріжжі

“…Причиною цих захворювань можуть бути паразити, бактерії, віруси та грибки, вплив котрих може коливатися від незначного до тяжкого та навіть смертельного. Розуміння епізоотології, етіології, патогенезу та лікування зоонозних захворювань має вирішальне значення для захисту як людей, так і тварин (Jahanmahin & Borji, 2023).…”

Using Helminths to Fight Cancer: An Innovative Approach

“…Toxocara canis is an intestinal parasite found mainly in dogs (Macpherson, 2013). However, it can also infect humans, leading to the development of a disease known as human toxocariasis (Jahanmahin and Borji, 2023). This occurs when someone accidentally ingests the parasite's eggs through contact with contaminated soil or objects.…”

“…This occurs when someone accidentally ingests the parasite's eggs through contact with contaminated soil or objects. T. canis has been investigated for its potential anticancer effects (Oikonomopoulou et al, 2013;Jahanmahin and Borji, 2023;). Despite T. canis infections most commonly affecting the liver, lungs, and eyes in humans, Garn et al (2021) indicated that exposure to T. canis antigens may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast and colon cancers (Garn et al, 2021).…”