Diagnostic Findings [Last Modified: ]
Toxocariasis
[Toxocara canis] [Toxocara cati] [Toxocara leonina]
Causal Agent Life Cycle Geographic Distribution Clinical Features Laboratory Diagnosis Treatment

Microscopy

Humans serve as only paratenic hosts for Toxocara spp.  After the ingestion of eggs, larvae hatch, penetrate the intestinal wall, and are carried by circulation to other body parts, including the liver, lungs, brain and eyes.  Larvae cease to develop any further and elicit immune reactions that are the basis of toxocariasis.

Cross-section of Toxocara sp. larvae Longitudinal section of Toxocara sp. larva
A B

A: Cross-section of Toxocara sp. larvae in liver tissue stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E).
B: Longitudinal section of a Toxocara sp. larva in liver tissue stained with H&E.

Longitudinal section of Toxocara sp. larva
C

C: Longitudinal section of a Toxocara sp. larva in lung tissue stained with H&E.

 
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