Subcutaneous Dirofilariosis

Most of the infected dogs are asymptomatic. A small, painless, subcutaneous nodule caused by the presence of an adult worm may be found during examination. Other causes of subcutaneous swelling should be considered for differential diagnosis. Location of the swelling may vary over time as the worms can move through the subcutaneous tissue. In some dogs, the infection induces localized pruritic dermatitis. Worms may also be found in connective tissue between muscles during surgery.