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Obstructive, granulomatous tracheitis caused by Onchocerca sp. in a dog
N Papaioannou1, D Psalla, E Papadopoulos
1Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54 124, Greece. nikpap@vet.auth.gr
Summary
A rare case of canine Onchocerca infection caused fatal tracheal obstruction. This study highlights a novel cause of respiratory distress in dogs, distinct from typical ocular symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Parasitology
- Canine Respiratory Diseases
Background:
- Onchocerca species commonly cause ocular and dermatological issues in dogs.
- Tracheal obstruction is a critical condition leading to respiratory failure.
Observation:
- A 3-year-old dog presented with progressive dyspnoea and coughing.
- Radiography revealed severe tracheal stenosis.
- Necropsy identified a chronic granulomatous inflammation obstructing the thoracic trachea.
Findings:
- Histological examination confirmed the presence of Onchocerca sp. nematodes.
- The granulomatous inflammation was directly linked to the nematode infection.
- This represents a previously unreported cause of obstructive tracheitis in dogs.
Implications:
- This case expands the known clinical spectrum of Onchocerca infections in canines.
- Highlights the importance of considering parasitic causes for severe respiratory compromise in dogs.
- Suggests a need for increased awareness among veterinarians regarding non-ocular Onchocerca manifestations.