Human subcutaneous dirofilariasis: an increasing phenomenon in Sri Lanka

Dirofilariasis, an emerging zoonosis around the world is endemic in Sri Lanka. Dirofilaria repens, manifesting as subcutaneous and ocular disease is the most commonly reported species. In Sri Lanka, ocular dirofilariasis has been extensively reported. However, literature on subcutaneous dirofilariasis is limited. Here we report a series of cases of subcutaneous dirofilariasis encountered within a period of approximately a year, mainly among the paediatric population in the Matale district. Noting the increasing frequency of reported cases we would like to emphasize on the importance of considering subcutaneous dirofilariasis among the differential diagnosis of subcutaneous lumps and bumps.