Spirocercosis-associated pyothorax in dogs

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Parasitology
• Canine Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Canine pyothorax is a serious condition often requiring aggressive treatment.
• Spirocercosis, caused by Spirocerca lupi, is an underdiagnosed cause of pyothorax in endemic regions.
• Oesophageal granulomas are characteristic of Spirocerca lupi infection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the clinical presentation and treatment outcomes of canine pyothorax associated with Spirocerca lupi.
• To evaluate the efficacy of conservative medical management for Spirocerca lupi-related pyothorax.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of medical records from five dogs diagnosed with spirocercosis-associated pyothorax.
• Assessment of clinical findings, diagnostic imaging, and treatment protocols.
• Analysis of treatment outcomes, including survival rates and response to medical management.

Main Results:

• Common clinical signs included weakness, anorexia, depression, dyspnoea, and fever.
• Oesophageal Spirocerca lupi granulomas were present in all affected dogs.
• Four out of five dogs survived following medical treatment with antibiotics, chest drainage, lavage, and doramectin.

Conclusions:

• Spirocerca lupi infection should be considered in the differential diagnosis of canine pyothorax, especially in endemic areas.
• Conservative medical management, including antihelmintic medication, is an effective treatment strategy for Spirocerca lupi-associated pyothorax.