Toxocara canis. Coloured scanning electron micrograph of the nematode (roundworm) Toxocara canis,the cause of toxocariasis (visceral larva migrans) in humans. Toxocara canis is a parasite of dogs,and its eggs are found in dogs' faeces. Humans,often children,can become infected with the eggs if they have contact with an infested dog or contaminated soil. The swallowed eggs hatch in the intestines to liberate larvae,which migrate through the tissues to organs such as the liver,lungs,brain and eyes. The larvae may cause mild malaise,or asthma,seizures,pneumonia & blindness. Magnification: x450 at 6x6cm size |