Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Generalized cutaneous urticaria associated with Giardia infection in a five-month old puppy.
- Journal:
- Veterinary parasitology, regional studies and reports
- Year:
- 2021
- Authors:
- Williams, Laura B A
- Affiliation:
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology & Pathology · United States
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A five-month-old Dalmatian puppy was brought to the vet because it had been experiencing skin hives and intense itching for a week. The hives were mostly seen on its head, belly, and groin area. Tests showed that the puppy had a Giardia infection, which is a type of intestinal parasite. After starting treatment with a medication called fenbendazole, the puppy's skin condition improved significantly within a day and completely cleared up by the end of the treatment. Follow-up tests showed no signs of Giardia, and the puppy has been healthy without any further issues for three months.
Abstract
Giardia cysts are commonly encountered in fecal examinations of dogs; intestinal infections can be asymptomatic or cause diarrhea but have not been previously associated with urticaria. A five-month old dalmatian puppy presented with a one-week history of cutaneous urticaria and pruritis. Wheals were most prominent on the head, abdomen, and inguinal region. A fecal flotation was performed to rule out internal parasites as a cause of hypersensitivity. Fecal float yielded many Giardia cysts, and treatment for giardiasis with fenbendazole was initiated. Urticaria improved drastically within a day after treatment initiation and completely resolved by the completion of the treatment regimen. No Giardia cysts were detected on the follow up fecal flotation three days later, and fecal Giardia antigen testing was negative at this time. No additional changes in management, housing, food, or environment were noted and the puppy has remained without additional clinical signs for three months following initial presentation.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34879954/