A Rare Case Report of Cutaneous Dirofilariasis

Dirofilariasis is a parasitic disease that typically infects animals. In rare cases, it can be transmitted to humans. The two species that infect humans more frequently are Dirofilaria repens , which causes subcutaneous nodules, and Dirofilaria immitis , causing pulmonary manifestations. Dirofilaria repens is an indirect parasite transmitted to humans by mosquitoes, which act as vectors, while dogs generally constitute the primary reservoir. Their bites allow the larvae to pass into human tissues where they develop. Cutaneous dirofilariasis manifests clinically with the appearance of papules, nodules, abrasions with secondary dryness, lichenification, changes in skin pigmentation, and intense itching. Sonography is the diagnostic tool that allows for easy identification of the dirofilariasis. Treatment is surgical and involves removal of the granuloma containing the parasite. This patient report describes a rare case of cutaneous dirofilariasis, localized to the cheek.