Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Cat with brain infection from Taenia serialis showing MRI and symptoms
By Jull, Philip et al.·Published in Journal of feline medicine and surgery·2012·Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, United Kingdom·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Cerebral coenurosis in a cat caused by Taenia serialis: neurological, magnetic resonance imaging and pathological features.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
A 4-year-old Birman cat was brought to the vet because it was very lethargic and unable to walk. An MRI showed two unusual areas in the brain that were linked to a type of tapeworm called Taenia serialis. The vet confirmed the diagnosis through further testing. This case highlights the importance of using MRI early in similar situations, as it can help determine the best treatment options and improve the chances of recovery.
People also search for: cat lethargy and weakness · Birman cat brain problems · Taenia serialis treatment in cats
Abstract
CLINICAL SUMMARY: A 4-year-old Birman cat was presented with marked obtundation and non-ambulatory tetraparesis. Two well-demarcated, intra-axial T2-hyperintense, T1-hypointense structures, which did not contrast enhance, were evident on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Histopathology of the structures revealed metacestodes that were morphologically indicative of larval stages of Taenia species. Polymerase chain reaction amplification of a fragment within the 12S rRNA gene confirmed the subspecies as Taenia serialis. PRACTICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This is the first report of MRI findings of cerebral coenurosis caused by T serialis in a cat. Early MRI should be considered an important part of the diagnostic work-up for this rare clinical disease, as it will help guide subsequent treatment and may improve the prognosis.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22918847/