DR. SHYAM SUNDAR DAS MOHAPATRA

DR. DIPANKAR DAS, DR.HARSHA BHATTACHARJEE, DR. NITU KUMARI

Abstract

Purpose: To describe a case of intraocular Thelazia infestation presented as unilateral treatment refractory anterior uveitis.

Methods: A 30-year-old male reported with pain, redness and DOV in OD for 3 months following insect bite. He consulted E/W and was managed with relevant investigations and with topical and systemic steroids, still no improvement was noted. O/E, congestion and AC reaction were noted in OD without any KP, posterior synechia or vitreous cells. On gonioscopy, a small live worm was noted in inferior angle, which was removed and sent for identification.

Results: The worm was identified as Thelazia callipaeda. Systemic parasitosis was ruled out. Postoperative recovery was uneventful with no more worms found after 4 weeks.

Conclusion: Intraocular Thelaziasis is rare. It’s difficult to determine how the worm entered into AC as it doesn’t have hooks or sharp spines. Possibility of parasitic uveitis should be considered in cases with treatment-refractory anterior uveitis.