Ectopic heartworm in an asymptomatic canine patient: Case report

Authors

  • Mateus Pires de Carvalho Universidade Unigranrio Afya https://orcid.org/0009-0008-7962-281X
  • Thereza Cristina Vasconcelos Universidade Unigranrio Afya
  • Liliane Maria Valentim Willi Monteiro Universidade Federal Fluminense
  • Fabiana Batalha Knackfuss Universidade Unigranrio Afya https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4560-1339
  • Fabrícia Souza Azevedo da Silva Médica Veterinária Autônoma

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31533/pubvet.v17n12e1494

Keywords:

asymptomatic, abdominal cavity, erratic cycle, surgical

Abstract

Heartworm is a disease caused by the nematode Dirofilaria immitis. Its larvae are transmitted by intermediate hosts which, once inside, manage to develop to the infective larval stage. Currently, the pathology is considered widespread throughout the world, affecting dogs, cats, wild dogs and humans. In Brazil, the pathology is considered endemic and mostly concentrated in coastal areas, where the highest prevalence of vectors occurs. However, infected animals are also found outside coastal areas. Severity varies according to the degree of infection; animals with very high parasitic loads can develop cardiopulmonary problems, possibly leading to the development of vena cava syndrome. Erratic cycles are not well understood, but their presence may be related to high parasitic loads in the host. Diagnosis can be made through rapid tests, microfilariae research and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Treatment is based on combating the parasite's symbiotic bacteria of the genius Wolbachia, and the use of microfilaricidal drugs.

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Published

2023-11-30

Issue

Section

Medicina veterinária

How to Cite

Ectopic heartworm in an asymptomatic canine patient: Case report. (2023). Pubvet, 17(12), e1494. https://doi.org/10.31533/pubvet.v17n12e1494

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