Rare case of extralymphatic dirofilariasis presenting as a facial subcutaneous nodule in non-endemic region of Spain

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Filarial infestation is highly prevalent in tropical countries, lymphangitis and chronic lymphedema being the most common complaints in these regions. Yet, extralymphatic filariasis outside endemic areas is an extremely rare scenario. CASE PRESENTATION: We report a case of filariasis in the south of Spain. A previously healthy 49-year-old male patient reported a subcutaneous facial swelling. Surgery showed an encysted solitary filarial worm. CONCLUSION: To our knowledge, this is a rare clinical manifestation of filariasis in non-endemical regions in Spain. Still, it should be kept in mind considering the increasing number of travelers and migratory phenomena, the changing climatic factors and the typical ultrasound findings.