First case of autochthonous Angiostrongylus vasorum infection in a Norwegian dog

Abstract

Abstract A fifteen-month-old Pembroke Welsh corgi with respiratory distress, exercise intolerance, and moderate regenerative anemia was referred to The Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Small Animal Hospital. Hematology revealed moderate regenerative anemia without evidence of hemolysis. Thoracic radiographs showed a generalized mixed interstitial to alveolar lung pattern and enlarged pulmonary arteries. Changes suggestive of moderate pulmonary hypertension were noted on echocardiography. Baermann fecal diagnostic flotation identified large numbers of Angiostrongylus vasorum larvae, and the AngioDetect serological antigen test was positive. The dog was treated with a two-week course with fenbendazole (51 mg/kg q24h po) and topical imidacloprid/moxidectin (250 mg/62.5 mg) and a one-week course with sildenafil (0.45 mg/kg q12h po). Complete clinical, clinicopathological and echocardiographic resolution was observed after only four weeks. Rapid improvement of echocardiographic abnormalities in cases with suspected pulmonary hypertension is not usually reported in cases with angiostrongylosis. Infection with A. vasorum should be considered in dogs with respiratory signs and bleeding tendencies, even in countries with no endemic history or reported cases.

Keywords

• Angiostrongylosis
• Coagulopathy
• Europe
• Norway
• Pulmonary hypertension
• Regenerative anemia