[Visceral larva migrans infections caused by toxocara species (author's transl)].

A total of 4656 serum samples from suspect persons were investigated for Toxocara antibodies over the last 10 years. Using the Ouchterlony technique antibodies were demonstrated in 707 cases, and in 409 cases with the help of the microprecipitation test using secondary larvae. It was shown that the living larva test is highly specific and very sensitive so that a positive reaction can be taken as definite evidence of infection. Clinical symptoms were characterised by high eosinophilia, ophthalmologic changes, lung involvement, central nervous affection and increase of gamma-globulins. A history of contact with dogs or cats was an additional indicator. Treatment of larva migrans syndrome has to date remained unsatisfactory as no effective and well tolerated drug is known.