Hyperfibrinolysis in a dog with strongyloidiasis

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Parasitology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• A female dog presented with excessive hemorrhage during surgery, prompting investigation into potential causes.
• The dog had a history of travel from Eastern Europe, coprophagia, and lacked prophylactic antiparasitic treatment.

Observation:

• Physical examination and abdominal ultrasound revealed no abnormalities.
• Routine blood work was unremarkable, and diagnostic tests for common travel-associated infectious agents and angiostrongylosis were negative.

Findings:

• Viscoelastic testing identified hyperfibrinolysis (excessive bleeding tendency).
• Baermann's fecal analysis confirmed infection with Strongyloides stercoralis.
• Treatment with ivermectin led to the resolution of hyperfibrinolysis.

Implications:

• This case represents the first documented instance of transient hyperfibrinolysis associated with canine strongyloidiasis.
• Strongyloidiasis should be considered an uncommon cause of acquired hyperfibrinolysis in dogs, especially when typical causes are ruled out.
• Hyperfibrinolysis has been previously associated with other helminth infections in dogs and other animal species.