Toxocara Canis infestation with encephalitis

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Abstract
SUMMARY The syndrome “visceral larva migrans” produced by migration of nematode larvae (commonly Toxocara species) in the extraintestinal tissues in unusual hosts, including man (particularly children of dirt eating age), with the production of reactive granulomatous lesions, was first described in 1952. About 200 cases have been reported since. Well documented cases are rare due to the difficulty in histological verification. Three cases have been reported in Canada but these were not verified. We believe the present report is the first verified case of visceral larva migrans in Canada and the fifth case of human cerebral involvement by Toxocara in the English literature. It is hoped that this report will emphasize the need for further research into the role of host versus parasite and will underline the potential danger, albeit remote, of household pets to children. Indeed, prevention is the only line of attack, as there is no effective drug against the migrating larvae of Toxocara.