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Splenic Paragonimiasis: A Case In A Dog.
Je Geun Chi1, Ok Ran Lee, Won Young Choi
1Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Korea.
Kisaengch'Unghak Chapchi. the Korean Journal of Parasitology
|August 1, 1981
Summary
A rare case of Paragonimus westermani parasitic cysts was discovered deep within a dog's spleen. This finding suggests a potential new migratory route for the parasite beyond the lungs.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Helminthology
- Zoonotic Diseases
Background:
- Paragonimus westermani is a lung fluke that typically infects the lungs.
- Splenic involvement by Paragonimus westermani is exceptionally rare in canine hosts.
- Understanding parasite migration routes is crucial for disease control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document and describe an unusual case of Paragonimus westermani infection in a dog's spleen.
- To investigate the potential for aberrant migration of Paragonimus westermani larvae within a mammalian host.
Main Methods:
- Experimental infection of a dog with Paragonimus westermani metacercariae via oral route.
- Necropsy and histopathological examination of infected canine tissues, focusing on the spleen.
- Identification and characterization of parasitic cysts and adult worms within the splenic parenchyma.
Main Results:
- Multiple Paragonimus westermani cysts were found deep within the spleen parenchyma of an experimentally infected dog.
- The splenic cysts were well-demarcated, surrounded by connective tissue, and contained adult worms, mimicking pulmonary lesions.
- The spleen showed slight enlargement and capsular surface hemorrhages.
Conclusions:
- The spleen can serve as a site for Paragonimus westermani cyst development, in addition to the lungs.
- Direct transcapsular invasion during larval migration is a hypothesized route for splenic infection.
- This case highlights the potential for aberrant migration and ectopic localization of Paragonimus westermani.