Pneumothorax in a persistent canine Angiostrongylus vasorum infection

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Canine Medicine
• Cardiorespiratory Diseases

Background:

• Canine angiostrongylosis, caused by Angiostrongylus vasorum, is a serious parasitic disease.
• It commonly leads to cardiorespiratory issues and potentially fatal coagulopathies.
• Pneumothorax is a rare but severe manifestation of this infection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of canine angiostrongylosis presenting with pneumothorax.
• To highlight the diagnostic challenges and successful treatment of a young dog with severe Angiostrongylus vasorum infection.
• To emphasize the need for increased veterinary awareness of parasitic etiologies in respiratory diseases.

Main Methods:

• Diagnostic workup including radiography, thoracic imaging, blood tests, and coprological analysis.
• Treatment with fenbendazole for Angiostrongylus vasorum infection.
• Intensive care and follow-up monitoring for clinical recovery.

Main Results:

• A 6-month-old dog presented with refractory bronchopneumonia and pneumothorax, diagnosed with severe Angiostrongylus vasorum infection.
• Diagnostic findings included pneumomediastinum, thoracic exudate, leucocytosis, thrombocytosis, hypercoagulability, and hyperglobulinemia.
• Treatment with fenbendazole was effective, with all parasite larvae found dead post-treatment, leading to complete clinical recovery within 3 months.

Conclusions:

• Parasitic infections like Angiostrongylus vasorum should be considered in dogs presenting with severe respiratory signs, including pneumothorax.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate antiparasitic treatment can lead to successful outcomes even in severe cases.
• Enhanced awareness among veterinary practitioners is crucial, particularly in regions with increasing canine angiostrongylosis prevalence.