Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Detecting heartworm and other filarial parasites in Malaysian dogs
By Vinnie-Siow, Wei Yin et al.·Published in Acta parasitologica·2022·Department of Parasitology·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Integration of Microscopic, Serologic and Molecular Techniques for Detection of Filarial Parasites in Dogs in Malaysia.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A study in Malaysia found that 6.5% of dogs tested positive for Dirofilaria immitis (the heartworm) and 1.3% for Brugia pahangi, a type of filarial parasite. The research involved blood samples from 399 dogs, revealing that crossbreed, medium-sized, and short-haired dogs were more likely to be infected. This is significant as it provides the first molecular evidence of Brugia pahangi in dogs in the country. Pet owners should be aware of these parasites and discuss prevention and treatment options with their veterinarian.
People also search for: dog heartworm symptoms · how to prevent filarial infection in dogs · signs of Brugia pahangi in dogs
Abstract
PURPOSE: Canine filariosis in domestic dogs caused by several species of filarids is an emerging vector-borne disease and the spread of this disease remains a global veterinary and public health concern. However, information regarding these filarids and their epidemiological patterns remains scarce in Malaysia. The present study aimed to determine the infection rate and associated risk factors of filarial parasites in dogs in Malaysia. METHODS: A total of 399 dog blood samples were collected from veterinary hospitals and animal shelters in Malaysia to determine the infection rate and associated risk factors via a combination of microscopic, serologic and molecular diagnostic techniques. RESULTS: Two species of canine filariae identified in this study were Dirofilaria immitis (6.5%) and Brugia pahangi (1.3%), and their infections were associated with cross breed, medium size and short hair (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: A new pair of primers was developed to complement the recovery of the 12S rRNA gene fragment of filarial parasites. This study represents the first molecular evidence of B. pahangi in dogs in Malaysia.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34797497/