Ophthalmohelminthosis

Ophthalmic helminthiasis: An eye disease caused by helminths

Ocular helminthiasis, also known as ophthalmic helminthiasis, is a rare disease that affects the eye and is caused by helminths (parasitic worms) entering the eye tissue. This condition poses a serious threat to vision and requires immediate medical attention.

Helminths, such as roundworms or tapeworms, can enter the eye tissue through a variety of methods, including direct entry through damaged conjunctiva (the thin, clear membrane covering the white of the eye) or migration from other parts of the body through the blood and lymphatic systems. They can cause inflammation, irritation and damage to eye tissue, which can lead to decreased vision or even loss of vision if the condition is not detected and treated promptly.

Symptoms of eyeworm infection may include the following:

  1. Itching, tingling, or discomfort in the eye.
  2. Redness of the conjunctiva or sclera (white of the eye).
  3. Increased tearing or discharge from the eyes.
  4. Decreased vision or blurred vision.
  5. Sensation of a foreign body in the eye.
  6. Swelling of the eyelids or periorbital area.
  7. Photophobia (sensitivity to light).

The diagnosis of ophthalmic helminthiasis is established on the basis of clinical manifestations, the patient’s medical history and the results of additional studies. This may include examining the eye by an eye doctor, taking tissue samples for laboratory testing, and diagnostic procedures such as an ultrasound of the eye or a CT scan.

Treatment for eyeworm infections usually includes antiparasitic medications, which can kill the worms and prevent them from reproducing. Additional measures may include the use of anti-inflammatory medications and symptomatic therapy to relieve symptoms and reduce inflammation. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove worms or repair damaged eye tissue.

Prevention of ophthalmic helminthiasis includes maintaining good hygiene, washing hands regularly, avoiding contact with contaminated water or soil, and using protective glasses or masks in situations where there may be a risk of exposure to helminths. It is also important to avoid close contact with infected animals and monitor their health, especially if other parasitic diseases are present.

Ocular helminthiasis is a rare disease, but its serious consequences on vision highlight the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. If you experience unexplained symptoms in the eye area, such as itching, redness, or changes in vision, it is recommended that you consult an ophthalmologist for a thorough examination and consultation.

In general, ophthalmic helminthiasis is a serious eye disease caused by the penetration of helminths into the eye tissue. Early diagnosis, antiparasitic treatment and surgery, if necessary, can help prevent vision loss and minimize complications. Maintaining good hygiene and precautions also plays an important role in preventing this rare disease.



Ophthalmo - "eye", helminth - "worm". It turns out that ophthalmogelinthiasis is one of the subtypes of helminthiasis. In many countries, ophthalmic helinthiasis is treated with specialized anthelmintic drugs.

**General information about helminthiasis.**

Helminthiasis is the general name for diseases caused by parasitic worms. The main symptom of the disease is anxiety and discomfort in the place of their localization - in the stomach, intestines or liver. Other signs include allergic reactions, disruption of internal organs, headaches, poor sleep, and itching. It is impossible to completely get rid of the disease. Can destroy helminths and reduce symptoms of the disease