Incidental Discovery of Conjunctival Thelazia callipaeda during Vitrectomy for Diabetic Tractional Retinal Detachment: A Case Report

Introduction: Thelazia callipaeda is a parasitic nematode that infects the eyes of humans and other mammals. This case highlights its incidental discovery during ocular surgery and underscores the importance of preoperative vigilance. Case Presentation: The parasite was identified intraoperatively in a 74-year-old female with a long-standing history of diabetes who was undergoing surgery for diabetic tractional retinal detachment in her right eye. She reported poor hygiene habits but no direct pet contact. The parasite, found within the conjunctival sac, was excised and confirmed by pathological examination. Postoperative care included antibiotic eye drops. At the 3-month follow-up, her best corrected visual acuity had improved to 6/120 with no recurrence. Conclusion: This case emphasizes the critical role of comprehensive preoperative examination for the timely detection of ocular parasites to prevent complications. It also highlights the need for clinician awareness of Thelazia infection, particularly in high-risk individuals, and the importance of appropriate postoperative follow-up to optimize outcomes and minimize recurrence risk.