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Cercarial Transformation and in vitro Cultivation of Schistosoma mansoni Schistosomules
Published on: August 16, 2011
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Schistosomiasis in the United States
1Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A & M University, College Station, MS 4474, College Station, TX 77843-4474, USA.
The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Small Animal Practice
|November 6, 2022
Summary
Canine schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection, causes enteropathy and hepatopathy in dogs, sometimes leading to hypercalcemia. Diagnosis involves fecal PCR, and treatment with praziquantel and fenbendazole is effective, though screening housemates is advised.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Parasitology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Canine schistosomiasis is a known cause of granulomatous enteropathy and hepatopathy.
- A subset of infected dogs develop significant hypercalcemia.
- Clinical signs are often nonspecific, complicating diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of canine schistosomiasis.
- To highlight key diagnostic indicators and therapeutic strategies for this parasitic infection.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical cases and diagnostic findings associated with canine schistosomiasis.
- Emphasis on ultrasonographic findings and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing.
- Discussion of treatment protocols utilizing praziquantel and fenbendazole.
Main Results:
- Ultrasonography shows heterogenous small intestinal wall layering and hyperechoic foci in affected organs.
- Fecal PCR offers a sensitive method for diagnosing canine schistosomiasis.
- Most dogs respond to treatment, but retreatment is sometimes necessary.
Conclusions:
- Canine schistosomiasis requires a high index of suspicion, especially with suggestive ultrasonographic findings.
- Fecal PCR is crucial for definitive diagnosis.
- Effective treatment is available, but monitoring and potential retreatment are important. Asymptomatic shedding necessitates screening of housemates.
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