Visceral Larva Migrans - Not a Man's Best Friend
 Visceral larva migrans is an infection caused by roundworms typically found in household pets such as dogs and cats. Although they are commonly found in the intestines of animals, visceral larva migrans can be transmitted to humans through unwashed, raw vegetables that grew in infected soil, or by simply petting an infected dog and not washing your hands before you eat.
When you swallow contaminated soil or food, the parasitic egg travels to the gastrointestinal tract and hatches. The roundworm then travels to various organs such as the eyes, lungs, and liver, as well as the heart and brain. Even though anyone can become infected, young children are most susceptible to visceral larva migrans since they are more likely to play in the dirt, and potentially eat it. Children who have pica, a disorder that causes them to ingest inedible objects such as dirt or glue, are even more at risk.
A mild case of this infection may not show any symptoms, but more severe cases can cause:
- abdominal pain
- shortness of breath
- irritability
- coughing
- fever
- hives
If the worms have entered your system through your eye (this is called ocular larva migrans), you may experience blurred vision that could potentially lead to blindness.
If you suspect you or your child has an infection caused by roundworms, consult your physician as soon as possible. Your doctor may perform a complete blood count and a blood test for anti-Toxocara antibodies to diagnose you accurately. People with visceral larva migrans will usually have an abnormally high level of white blood cells. You may also have a rash, eye problems, or a swollen lung. If the condition is mild, patients may not need medications, but severe cases could require antibiotics.
You can help prevent infection by de-worming your pets, washing your hands after touching your pets, and not allowing your kids to play in areas where your pets may defecate.
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