A Mini-Invasive Procedure for Removal of Adult Dirofilaria Repens From Subcutaneous Nodules in Dogs

Dirofilaria repens is the causative agent of canine and feline subcutaneous Dirofilariosis, a mosquito-borne disease that has been increasingly reported in several countries in southern and central Europe, Africa and Asia. The natural hosts of D. repens are domestic and wild carnivores and the adults of these nematodes reside in the subcutaneous tissues of dogs and cats. Infection occasionally causes mild clinical signs such as subcutaneous nodules, itching, and dermal swelling, but most affected animals are asymptomatic. Here, the authors report a novel, mini-invasive procedure for removal of adult worms in four naturally-infected dogs presenting skin nodules. Ultrasonographic (US) and cytological diagnostic features are also presented. Worms were removed using a 19 Gauge needle, connected to a vacuum syringe. No adulticide therapy is currently available for D. repens and therefore surgical removal of worms could represent a non-invasive treatment leading to definitive cure of symptoms.