Iranian Journal of Veterinary Surgery (Aug 2011)
An Unusual Case of Subglossal Hirudiniasis in an Iranian Cross-breed Goat-kid
Abstract
Case Description- Hirudiniasis in the subglossal area is very rare. We describe an Iranian cross-breed goat-kid with two leeches’ infestation in his sublingual area. Clinical Findings -The animal was referred to the veterinary clinic with a history of anorexia, teeth grinding and bleeding from the mouth. In clinical examination of the mouth, two leeches observed which attached to sublingual region. Treatment and Outcome - Manual removal by forceps was done and all clinical signs were subsided. Clinical Relevance-Most leeches are bloodsucking parasites which attach themselves to vertebrate hosts, bite through the skin and suck out a quantity of blood. Other than the nuisance effect of their biting, their medical significance is generally minimal