Résumé
Loiasis is a parasitic disease due to the filarial nematode Loa loa and transmitted to humans via the bites of a tabanid fly of the genus Chrysops. The disease manifests itself in two main signs, the adult worm migration across the subconjunctiva (“eye worm”) and evanescent localized subcutaneous swellings, called “Calabar Swellings.” Serious adverse events (SAEs) can occur as a result of diethylcarbamazine or ivermectin treatment in people harboring a very high L. loa microfilarial load. Loiasis, has been therefore of primary significance in areas where it is coendemic to lymphatic filariasis or onchocerciasis. These last years, significant clinical impacts have been demonstrated. The diagnosis of this filarial infection has significantly evolved, from direct observation of parasites using microscopic-based examination techniques to various diagnostic approaches based on the detection of the parasite-related biomarkers. Molecular-based and flow cytometry techniques despite their high sensitivity, require expensive equipment and well-equipped laboratories, whereas microscopy and immunological-based techniques are costless and friendly user but less sensitive. Performance and cost-effectiveness vary greatly with regard to the considered techniques, and the choice of the suitable diagnostic technique for loiasis depends on the application.