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Dirofilariasis with arteriosclerosis in a horse
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|September 1, 1984
Summary
Arteriosclerosis in a horse was linked to Dirofilaria immitis parasites, causing significant pulmonary vascular changes. These changes, known as proliferative endarteritis, were similar to those seen in infected dogs.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Parasitology
- Equine Medicine
Background:
- Dirofilaria immitis, commonly known as heartworm, is a parasitic nematode that affects various animal species.
- While heartworm disease is well-documented in canines, its occurrence and pathological effects in equines are less commonly reported.
- Cantharidin toxicosis is a serious condition in horses, often leading to fatal outcomes.
Observation:
- A 20-month-old Quarter horse stallion presented with signs of cantharidin toxicosis.
- Post-mortem examination revealed significant arteriosclerosis attributed to adult Dirofilaria immitis parasites.
- Microscopic evaluation of the pulmonary vasculature showed changes consistent with proliferative endarteritis.
Findings:
- The presence of adult Dirofilaria immitis parasites in the pulmonary arteries of the horse caused arteriosclerosis.
- The observed pulmonary vascular changes, specifically proliferative endarteritis, mirrored those previously documented in dogs infected with Dirofilaria immitis.
- This case highlights a potential, albeit rare, manifestation of Dirofilaria immitis infection in horses.
Implications:
- This finding expands the understanding of Dirofilaria immitis pathogenesis in equids.
- It underscores the importance of considering parasitic causes of vascular disease in horses, even when other toxicological conditions are present.
- Further research may be warranted to determine the prevalence and clinical significance of Dirofilaria immitis in horse populations.