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Hepatic capillariasis in a Cape ground squirrel (Xerus inaurus)
K H Erlwanger1, B A De Witt, L G Fick
1Brain Function Research Group, School of Physiology, University of the Witwatersrand Medical School, 7 York Rd, Parktown, 2193 South Africa. kennedy.erlwanger@wits.ac.za
Journal of the South African Veterinary Association
|May 13, 2010
Summary
Calodium hepaticum infestation was found in a Cape ground squirrel. This parasite poses a potential zoonotic risk, requiring caution when interacting with these squirrels.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Parasitology
- Wildlife Disease
Background:
- Calodium hepaticum, a nematode, primarily infects rodents of the genus Rattus.
- While historically associated with rats, C. hepaticum has been documented in other rodent families, including Sciuridae.
Observation:
- A sub-adult female Cape ground squirrel (Xerus inaurus) presented with incidental C. hepaticum infestation.
- Necropsy revealed severe hemoperitoneum, enlarged spleen and liver with diffuse white spots in the liver parenchyma.
- Histological examination showed granulomatous inflammation, fibrosis, giant cells, adult worms, and C. hepaticum eggs in the liver and spleen.
Findings:
- This is the first reported case of Calodium hepaticum infestation in Xerus inaurus.
- The parasite eggs and adult worms were identified within the liver and spleen tissues.
- Pathological findings included significant inflammation and tissue damage in the affected organs.
Implications:
- The findings highlight the potential for Calodium hepaticum to infect a broader range of rodent species.
- There is a potential zoonotic risk associated with C. hepaticum, necessitating caution during contact with infected wildlife, particularly Cape ground squirrels.
- Further research into the epidemiology and host range of C. hepaticum is warranted.
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