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Macracanthorhynchus ingens infection in a dog
J R Pearce1, C M Hendrix, N Allison
1Stage Road Animal Hospital, Memphis, TN 38128, USA.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|July 27, 2001
Summary
A Siberian Husky diagnosed with Macracanthorhynchus ingens infection experienced diarrhea. Treatment with epsiprantel and ivermectin resolved the symptoms, highlighting potential wildlife-to-dog parasite transmission.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Canine Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Macracanthorhynchus ingens, a thorny-headed worm, typically infects wild mammals like raccoons.
- Transmission to domestic animals can occur through the ingestion of infected intermediate hosts, such as millipedes.
Observation:
- A 4-month-old female Siberian Husky presented with diarrhea and the recovery of four helminths from its feces.
- Morphological examination of the adult parasites and ova confirmed infection with Macracanthorhynchus ingens.
Findings:
- Spindle-shaped eggs, measuring approximately 91 x 54 micrometers, were recovered from a gravid female specimen.
- The dog was successfully treated with a combination of epsiprantel and ivermectin, leading to the resolution of diarrhea.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for Macracanthorhynchus ingens to infect domestic dogs, particularly in areas with endemic wildlife populations.
- Effective treatment protocols involving epsiprantel and ivermectin can be employed for canine cases of Macracanthorhynchus ingens infection.
- Understanding the transmission cycle involving intermediate hosts is crucial for preventing future infections in companion animals.
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