Dirofilarial infection of the orbit.
OBJECTIVE
We report on two cases of dirofilaria involving the orbit. There have been no previous case reports of superior rectus involvement in the literature.


METHODS
The presenting history, ocular examination, relevant investigations and treatments are discussed.


RESULTS
In both cases the lesion was debulked surgically with subsequent histopathological identification of a dirofilarial worm. Postoperatively both patients were relieved of their presenting symptoms with no recurrence of the lesion.


CONCLUSIONS
Dirofilarial involvement of the orbit is uncommon. It should be considered as a rare infectious form of specific orbital inflammation and considered in the differential diagnosis of orbital inflammatory lesions.
Angunawela
Romesh I
RI
Department of Ophthalmology, St. Thomas Hospital, London, UK. romeshi@hotmail.com
Ataullah
Sajid
S
Whitehead
Kevin J
KJ
Sullivan
Timothy J
TJ
Rosser
Paul
P
D000328:Adult; D004184:Dirofilariasis / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D005369:Filaricides / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007559:Ivermectin / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013508:Ophthalmologic Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods; D009916:Orbital Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000469:parasitology* / Q000628:therapy
D005369:Filaricides; D005938:Glucocorticoids; D007559:Ivermectin