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Dirofilariasis

 

What is dirofilariasis?

Dirofilariasis is a parasitic disease caused by nematodes of the genus Dirofilaria. The two most common species affecting mammals are Dirofilaria immitis, known as the heartworm, and Dirofilaria repens. Although this disease is most prevalent in dogs and cats, it can also affect other mammals, including humans.

 

Dirofilaria life cycle

The life cycle of Dirofilaria involves two hosts:

  1. Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes act as intermediate vectors. When a mosquito bites an infected animal, it ingests parasite larvae called microfilariae, which circulate in the blood. These larvae develop inside the mosquito into an infective form (third instar larvae). The infected mosquito can then transmit the larvae to another host by biting it.
  2. Mammals (definitive hosts): Once inside a mammal, the larvae migrate through the bloodstream to the heart and lungs, where they mature into adult worms. In dogs and cats, adult worms can cause serious health problems by clogging pulmonary arteries and heart chambers.

Clinical forms in animals

Dirofilariasis in humans

In humans, Dirofilaria infection is rare and usually asymptomatic. However, when it does occur, it can manifest itself in the following ways:

Diagnosis and treatment

In humans, dirofilariasis does not usually require deworming, as adult parasites do not reach full maturity in humans. Subcutaneous or pulmonary nodules are often surgically removed for diagnostic confirmation and resolution of the problem.

Prevention

Prevention of dirofilariasis in animals is essential and relies on:

Significance of the disease

Diarrhoea is a significant disease in veterinary medicine, especially in areas where mosquitoes are present throughout the year. Its management and prevention are essential for pet health. In humans, although the disease is rare, it is important that clinicians are aware of its existence to avoid misdiagnosis of pulmonary nodules or other symptoms.

In summary, dirofilariasis is a parasitic disease that mainly affects dogs and cats, with serious health consequences if left untreated. Prevention through deworming and mosquito control

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