PMC4697078_01
Surgical site after removing the parasite.
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fig1
The remainder of the object was gently evacuated (Figure 1).
Specimen of Dirofilaria repens.
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fig2
On becoming apparent the object was a worm it was measured and found to be 7 cm long (Figure 2).
PMC4697078_02
Intraoral appearance.
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fig3
Intraoral examination showed a well circumscribed, partially moveable, firm swelling on the left side buccal mucosa (Figure 3).
Specimen of Dirofilaria repens.
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fig4
Subsequently the nodule was excised from an intraoral aspect and the parasite was identified as a female specimen of Dirofilaria repens (Figure 4). 
Anterior end of the worm showing thick longitudinal ridges and oral cavity.
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fig5
Finally, quoted samples were loaded into the scanning electron microscope (EVO/LS15, Carl Zeiss, Germany) and photos were taken at different magnification (Figures 5  -8).
Posterior end of the worm showing thick longitudinal ridges.
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fig6
Finally, quoted samples were loaded into the scanning electron microscope (EVO/LS15, Carl Zeiss, Germany) and photos were taken at different magnification (Figures 5  -8).
Cuticle of the worm (middle part) showing transverse striations and longitudinal ridges.
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fig7
Finally, quoted samples were loaded into the scanning electron microscope (EVO/LS15, Carl Zeiss, Germany) and photos were taken at different magnification (Figures 5  -8).
A cross section of the worm showing cuticular ridges and thick musculature.
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fig8
Finally, quoted samples were loaded into the scanning electron microscope (EVO/LS15, Carl Zeiss, Germany) and photos were taken at different magnification (Figures 5  -8).