Descriptive Analysis of Imported Toxocariasis Cases Diagnosed Between 2014 and 2024 in an International Health Unit in Barcelona, Spain.

OBJECTIVES

Toxocariasis is a zoonotic helminthic infection caused by Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati, parasites commonly found in dogs and cats. It is endemic in many low- and middle-income countries, but cases are increasingly reported in non-endemic areas due to global mobility. The aim of this study is to describe the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of patients diagnosed with imported toxocariasis.

METHODS

This is a retrospective of all imported toxocariasis cases diagnosed at the Vall d'Hebron-Drassanes International Health Unit in Barcelona, Spain (2014-2024). Diagnosis of toxocariasis was defined by a positive serological test accompanied by clinical and/or labouratorial alterations compatible with the diagnosis. We collected demographic, epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic information from electronic medical records.

RESULTS

Eighty-seven cases of toxocariasis were included. Mean age of patients was 37.2 (SD 18.3) years and 47 (54.0%) were male. Most patients (82, 94.3%) were migrants, and five (5.8%) patients were travellers. Only 20 (23.0%) patients reported having symptoms, with gastrointestinal disturbances being the most common (11, 12.6%). Eosinophilia was present in 64 (74.4%) patients and elevated IgE (58, 84.0%) was common. Co-infections were observed in 26 (29.9%) patients. Of patients that received treatment, most were given albendazole (79, 96.3%). The majority who attended a follow-up appointment showed normalisation in laboratory results despite some remaining seropositive for Toxocara canis.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings underscore the need to consider testing for toxocariasis when treating patients with eosinophilia who have visited endemic areas and highlight the value of a One Health approach in understanding, preventing and managing zoonotic diseases.