Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Neurologic problems in three dogs after heartworm treatment
By Hettlich, Bianca F et al.·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·2003·Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Neurologic complications after melarsomine dihydrochloride treatment for Dirofilaria immitis in three dogs.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
Three dogs developed neurologic problems after receiving an injection of melarsomine dihydrochloride, a medication used to treat heartworm disease. Symptoms included issues with movement and other neurologic deficits, which may have been caused by the medication spreading from the injection site or improper injection technique. While melarsomine is effective against heartworms, these complications highlight the importance of careful administration. Awareness of proper injection methods could help prevent these issues in the future.
People also search for: dog heartworm treatment side effects · melarsomine injection complications · dog neurologic problems after heartworm treatment
Abstract
Melarsomine dihydrochloride is highly effective against both sexes of adult and L5 Dirofilaria immitis. Common adverse reactions include injection site irritation and reluctance to move. Neurologic complications associated with i.m. injection of melarsomine dihydrochloride for treatment of heartworm disease in 3 dogs are described. Different degrees of neurologic complications have been identified; the pathophysiologic features are unknown. It is speculated that the compound migrates out of the injection site via fascial planes and causes an ascending inflammation along nerve roots. The resulting extradural cord compression secondary to extensive inflammation and necrosis of epidural fat could induce a variety of neurologic deficits. Alternatively, inappropriate injection technique may result in direct contact of melarsomine with neural tissue. A heightened awareness of proper injection technique might prevent the development of most neurologic complications.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14627097/