Toxocariasis

Toxocariasis is an infection caused by parasitic roundworms usually found in the intestine of dogs and cats, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Read about "Animal & Insect Borne Diseases") In the United States, about 10-thousand cases of Toxocara are reported each year in people. In most cases, the infections are not serious, and many people, especially adults may not notice any symptoms. The most severe cases are rare, but are more likely to occur in young children who often play in dirt or sand contaminated by dog or cat feces, according to CDC.

Symptoms

There are two types of toxocariasis, according to CDC:

• Ocular larva migrans (OLM) - Toxocara infections can cause OLM, which is an eye disease that can cause blindness. OLM occurs when a microscopic worm enters the eye. It may cause inflammation and a scar on the retina. Every year more than 700 people infected with toxocara have permanent partial loss of vision. (Read about "The Eye")
• Visceral larva migrans (VLM) - VLM is a disease that causes swelling of the body's organs or central nervous system. (Read about "Nervous System") This can be the result of heavy or repeated toxocara infections. Symptoms of VLM include fever, asthma, coughing or pneumonia.

Treatment and prevention

A blood test is available to help diagnose the infection. CDC says VLM is treated with antiparasitic drugs and anti-inflammatory medications. Treatment of OLM is more challenging and usually consists of measures to prevent damage to the eye.

You can take steps to reduce the risk of toxocariasis to you and your family. Dogs and cats should be de-wormed regularly. Wash your hands well after playing with dogs or cats, and teach your children to do the same. Teach your children not to eat dirt or soil. If there is a sandbox at your child's school or day care center, ask that it be covered when not in use.