Cerebrospinal Nematodiasis in 20 Camelids

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Neurology
• Parasitology

Background:

• Cerebrospinal nematodiasis (CN) in camelids lacks extensive clinical and clinicopathologic data.
• Limited information exists on factors influencing CN outcomes in camelids.

Purpose of the Study:

• Identify clinical and therapeutic variables predicting survival in camelids with CN.
• Determine prognostic indicators for cerebrospinal nematodiasis in alpacas and llamas.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of client-owned camelids diagnosed with CN (1995-2015).
• Diagnosis confirmed via cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis or postmortem examination.
• Analysis of clinical signs, treatments, and survival rates.

Main Results:

• Survival rate to discharge was 45% among 20 camelids (11 alpacas, 9 llamas).
• Common signs included proprioceptive deficits, recumbency, tachypnea, and ataxia.
• Higher plasma fibrinogen, CK, and creatinine in non-survivors; lower blood eosinophils, platelets, and CO2.
• Survival associated with species, sex, no corticosteroids, and clinical improvement.

Conclusions:

• Prognosis for CN in camelids is guarded, but recumbency is not a negative predictor.
• Male camelids and llamas have a poorer prognosis.
• Corticosteroid use is contraindicated for CN treatment in camelids.