We present two cases of intrafamilial toxocariasis.
Case 1: The patient was a 75-year-old female who had received treatment for pyothorax from her previous doctor. Hematologic examination revealed eosinophilia and IgE elevation, and the chest computed tomography (CT) was significant for multiple nodular shadows in both lungs that migrated over time. Notably, she was a dog breeder and routinely consumed raw venison. So, we tested her for serum anti-parasite IgG antibodies, and found her serum antibody titer for Toxocara canis to be high. These observations led to the suspicion of pulmonary toxocariasis due to Toxocara canis.
Case 2: The patient was a 76-year-old male, and the husband of case 1. Although he showed no symptoms, we examined him because he had a similar life history. His chest CT was significant for nodular shadows, which migrated over time. Serum examination revealed elevated IgG antibodies against Toxocara canis. As with case 1, we suspected pulmonary toxocariasis.
Both cases were treated with several anthelmintics, and the chest shadows disappeared. Consequently, we diagnosed both cases as toxocariasis. When a patient presents with toxocariasis, other family members with a similar life history should be considered for examination.