OCULAR TOXOCARIASIS IN AN ADULT PATIENT

Toxocariasis, a parasitic infection caused by the nematode parasite Toxocara, is prevalent worldwide, primarily transmitted to humans through contaminated feces of dogs and cats. While ocular involvement is rare, it mainly affects children. Here, we present a case report of a 38-year-old adult residing in a rural area with prior exposure to cats and dogs, who presented with progressive unilateral visual impairment, esotropia, and a painless white eye. Ophthalmological examination revealed retinal folds and fibrous bands extending from the optic disc to the periphery, indicative of vitreoretinal traction. Laboratory findings showed hypochromic microcytic anemia with hypereosinophilia and strongly positive antibody titers against Toxocara cati in both vitreous and serum. Treatment consisted of Albendazole (800 mg/day) and oral corticosteroids (1 mg/kg/day) with gradual tapering over one month, resulting in significant improvement after three months. This case highlights the importance of considering toxocariasis in adults with ocular symptoms and emphasizes the efficacy of combined antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory therapy in managing ocular toxocariasis.