Baylisascaris procyonis un nemátodo del mapache urbano, agente zoonótico emergente por considerar como diagnóstico diferencial de larva migrans en Costa Rica. Revisión

The zoonotic helminth Baylisacaris procyonis is a parasite in urban raccoons (Procyon lotor) of increasing public health concern.  A new report alerts about the presence of these roundworms in urban raccoon populations in Costa Rica stressing the need to understand the parasite, its life cycle and preventive measures to avoid transmission to humans and pets.  This is a brief review of the most remarkable features of this parasite and its negative effects on animal and public health.  Additionally, emphasis is given on the best and most appropriate etiologic diagnostic methods in domestic animals, as well as treatment and prevention in dogs.  This article is meant to raise awareness in public and animal health caretakers to consider Bayliascaris procyonis as differential diagnosis for larva migrans in Costa Rica.