Microbiology
A helminth, but one not to be worn on the head. Toxocara canis from dogs (very common in puppies), Toxocara cati from cats. Toxocara canis from foxes.
Epidemiologic Risks
Stepping in cat poo or dog poo and feeling it squish between your toes; I hate dogs and cats. Eating food covered with the same.
Owning dogs a risk.
And eating raw ostrich liver (PubMed).
Also undercooked meat, fresh or unwashed vegetables.
Syndromes
Visceral larva migrans: the worm taking a walk through your peritoneum.
Occasionally eosinophilic meningitis and other CNS infections (Pubmed) and involve the eye.
Eosinophilia common.
There are serologies.
Treatment
Time. Severe disease albendazole (treatment of choice) or mebendazole plus steroids.
Notes
More common in children who are more likely, well, to eat animal poo.
Last Update: 04/24/18.