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Updated: Jan 4, 2026
09:37
Helminth Collection and Identification from Wildlife
Published on: December 14, 2013
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Concurrent Helminthosis Engendered Gastroenteritis in a Leopard Panthera Pardus.
R Kumar1, A D Moudgil2, A Sharma3
1Department of Veterinary Pathology, Chennai India.
Helminthologia
|November 12, 2019
Summary
A captive leopard experienced parasitic gastroenteritis due to roundworms (Toxocara canis) and tapeworms (Spirometra species). This case highlights the risks these parasites pose to wild felids and potential zoonotic transmission.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Parasitology
- Wildlife Health
Background:
- Parasitic gastroenteritis is a significant health concern in captive wildlife.
- Wild felids are susceptible to various gastrointestinal parasites, impacting their health and survival.
- Zoonotic potential of certain parasites poses risks to human health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document a case of mixed parasitic gastroenteritis in a captive leopard (Panthera pardus).
- To identify the specific parasitic agents involved.
- To describe the pathological findings associated with the infection.
Main Methods:
- Necropsy and gross internal examination of the leopard carcass.
- Detailed examination of intestinal contents for parasite eggs and morphology.
- Histopathological analysis of affected tissues (gastrointestinal tract and lungs).
Main Results:
- Mixed parasitic gastroenteritis was diagnosed, with identification of Toxocara canis and Spirometra species.
- Gross findings included round and tapeworms, catarrhal, and hemorrhagic gastroenteritis.
- Histopathology revealed intestinal epithelial sloughing, hemorrhages, ulcerative areas, and inflammatory cell infiltration, along with pulmonary edema and inflammation.
Conclusions:
- The case confirms parasitic gastroenteritis caused by Toxocara canis and Spirometra species in a captive leopard.
- These findings underscore the pathogenicity of these parasites in felids and the potential for zoonotic transmission.
- This case report contributes to the understanding of parasitic diseases in captive wildlife.
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