toxocariasis

a disease caused by the larvae of roundworms, which normally infect the domestic dog (Toxicara canis) and cat (Toxicara cati) but can be passed to humans if they swallow material contaminated with eggs in infected faeces. Those most at risk are children, especially at a young age when hands may become infected while playing. Once swallowed, the larvae, which hatch from the eggs, travel around the body in the circulation and can cause considerable damage to, for example, the LUNGS and LIVER . Also, the larvae may lodge in the RETINA of the EYE , causing INFLAMMATION and the production of abnormal granulated tissue called granuloma. Symptoms of the infection include muscular pain, fever, skin rash, respiratory problems, vomiting and convulsions. Treatment is with drugs, such as diethylcarbamazine and thiabendazole.