Human Subconjunctival Dirofilariasis Presenting as the Daytime Photophobia: A Case Report

Abstract

We report a case of subconjunctival worm with a rare presentation of diurnal photophobia and temporal conjunctival injection. This case report describes a subconjunctival dirofilariasis in a 59-year-old man presented with foreign body sensation, localized tenderness, and eye redness during the day. After removal of subconjunctival 10 cm worm, the diagnosis was compatible with Dirofilaria immitis. Proof of identity was based on the morphological appearance, which were reliable diagnostic clues. Ocular examination was normal one month later except for faint temporal conjunctival scar. Subconjunctival dirofilariasis could present as diurnal photophobia and conjunctival injection.

Keywords

• Subconjunctival dirofilariasis
• Dirofilaria immitis
• Eye
• Photophobia
• Case report