Secondary intestinal intussusception to parasitosis by Ancyclostoma spp. in a dog

Abstract

Intussusception is the invagination of one intestinal segment into an adjacent segment, caused by changes in motility. Hookworm is a parasitic infection of the small intestine that affects animals of all ages, especially young dogs. Both conditions have non-specific but very similar clinical signs, such as anemia, anorexia, dyspnea, lethargy, weight loss, emesis, bloody diarrhea, distension, abdominal pain, and rectal prolapse. Intussusception treatment is recommended by exploratory laparotomy followed by manual reduction or intestinal resection and anastomosis, and hookworm is recommended to use anthelminthic and supportive therapy when necessary. We report a case of intussusception secondary to Ancylostoma spp. in a dog with chronic diarrhea, reduced by surgical technique. Being addressed aspects of diagnosis, treatment and therapeutic complications. Importantly, hookworm can cause intussusception and the veterinarian should be aware of the diagnosis, the parasite cycle, environmental prevention techniques and clinical and surgical treatment.