Unusual cause of unilateral facial oedema: intramuscular dirofilariasis

Introduction: Unilateral facial oedema may occur due to inflammatory, infective, or cystic pathology; patients often seek medical help at an early stage. Case report: We report one such case caused mimicking a parotid abscess, caused by dirofilariasis. Conclusion: Dirofilariasis is an emerging zoonosis and should be considered a differential diagnosis of atypical facial swelling. It is equally important for clinicians, radiologists, and pathologists to be familiar with the diagnostic characteristics to avoid misdiagnosis.