Dioctophimosis in a canine from a rural area of Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Abstract

Dictofimosis is a disease caused by the nematode Dioctophyma renale and is characterized by a relatively common finding in rural dogs, most often as an asymptomatic condition. The parasitism usually affects the right kidney, because of its proximity to the duodenum, however, there are literature reports indicating the involvement of the contralateral kidney and ectopic locations. The epidemiology of nematode parasitism involves a complex evolutionary cycle, and may even have man as an accidental host. The most effective treatment is through surgical removal of the parasite and removal of the affected kidney. Canine populations that live on riverbanks, lakes and other aquatic habitats are more susceptible to infection, due to the greater contact and possibility of ingesting paratenic hosts such as fish and frogs. Thus, the knowledge of this disease by veterinarians should be included in the differential diagnosis of causes of nephropathies.