Dirofilaria repens

Dirofilaria repens is a parasitic worm that is primarily transmitted through the bite of a mosquito. It is a species of the genus Dirofilaria, which belongs to the family Onchocercidae. Dirofilaria repens is known to cause a disease known as dirofilariasis in dogs, cats, and occasionally in humans.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Dirofilaria repens begins when a mosquito feeds on the blood of an infected host, ingesting the microfilariae, or immature worms. Inside the mosquito, the microfilariae develop into infective larvae. When the mosquito bites another host, the larvae are deposited on the skin and enter the new host through the bite wound. Inside the host, the larvae mature into adult worms, which live in the subcutaneous tissues. The adult worms produce microfilariae, which circulate in the host's blood and can be ingested by another mosquito, continuing the life cycle.

Disease in Animals

In dogs and cats, Dirofilaria repens causes a disease known as subcutaneous dirofilariasis. The disease is characterized by the formation of nodules under the skin, which can lead to dermatitis, alopecia, and pruritus. In severe cases, the disease can cause systemic symptoms such as lethargy, weight loss, and anorexia.

Disease in Humans

Humans can also be infected with Dirofilaria repens, although this is less common. In humans, the disease is known as human dirofilariasis. Symptoms can include nodules under the skin, conjunctivitis, and in rare cases, pulmonary and neurological complications.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention of Dirofilaria repens infection involves controlling the mosquito population and using mosquito repellents. In animals, monthly heartworm preventatives can also be used. Treatment involves the surgical removal of the nodules and, in some cases, the use of antiparasitic drugs.