diagnosis on morphologic grounds is difficult, because a large number of zoonotic Dirofilaria species have been described that share morphologic features with D. repens. Treatment Antifilarial medication for infected humans generally is not supported in the medical literature. One group of authors has recommended a single dose of ivermectin followed by three doses of diethylcarbamazine if the syndrome is recognized prior to surgery. However, most cases are diagnosed retrospectively, when histopathological sections of biopsy or excision material are viewed. In terms of surgical care, excision of lesions and affected areas is the treatment of choice for patients with human dirofilariasis. Some authors have recommended a period of observing chest coin lesions for several months if dirofilariasis is suspected and no other features in the history or examination suggesting malignancy or other infection are present. Also, no specific diet is recommended for patients with dirofilariasis. References External links Dirofilaria repens Microfilaremia in Three Dogs in Estonia. Jokelainen P, Mõtsküla PF, Heikkinen P, Ülevaino E, Oksanen A, Lassen B. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis. 2016. Spirurida Parasitic nematodes of mammals Parasites of dogs Parasites of cats Veterinary helminthology Zoonoses Nematodes described in 1911