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

Abstract

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.