Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Cystic echinococcosis infection found in domestic cats in Patagonia
By Avila, Héctor Gabriel et al.·Published in Parasitology research·2021·Universidad Cató·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: First report of cystic echinococcosis caused by Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto/G1 in Felis catus from the Patagonian region of Argentina.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
Two domestic cats in rural Patagonia, Argentina, were found to have a parasitic infection called cystic echinococcosis, caused by a specific type of tapeworm. They showed symptoms of abdominal swelling, which was diagnosed using ultrasound and surgery. This case highlights the importance of considering this infection in cats that have abdominal distension, especially in areas where the parasite is common. Treatment details were not provided, but recognizing the condition is crucial for proper care.
People also search for: cat abdominal swelling · cystic echinococcosis in cats · Echinococcus granulosus symptoms in felines
Abstract
Two domestic cats from the Patagonia rural area in Argentina were found to be naturally infected with Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto/G1 genotype; so far, the only species/genotype of E. granulosus sensu lato complex described to infect domestic cats. The felines developed abdominal disseminated larval disease; the diagnosis was performed by ultrasound, exploratory laparotomy, and molecular techniques. These results indicate that cystic echinococcosis must be considered for differential diagnosis of felines with abdominal distension and/or observation of vesicles through ultrasound, from endemic areas. Even though cats and dogs are carnivores, differences in digestive physiology and immunological characteristics between them could allow the development of larval or adult worm parasites. Domestic cats with cystic echinococcosis show to be environmentally infected with E. granulosus s. s./G1 eggs.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33442817/