Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
New test to detect lungworms and heartworms in cats
By Di Cesare, Angela et al.·Published in Journal of clinical microbiology·2015·Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Italy·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Novel Molecular Assay for Simultaneous Identification of Neglected Lungworms and Heartworms Affecting Cats.
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
Researchers are looking into lungworms and heartworms that can affect cats because these parasites are becoming more common and can cause serious health issues. Diagnosing these infections can be difficult, but a new test called multiplex PCR can now identify three types of lungworms and one type of heartworm at the same time. This advancement could help veterinarians better understand and treat these infections in cats. The study highlights the importance of being aware of these parasites and their impact on feline health.
Abstract
Feline lungworms and heartworms are stimulating the interest of the scientific community due to their clinical impact and apparent geographical expansion. Diagnosis of the infections caused by these nematodes is indeed challenging. This report describes a novel multiplex PCR able to identify simultaneously three species of lungworms (Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and Troglostrongylus brevior) and heartworms (Angiostrongylus chabaudi) affecting felids. Epidemiological and clinical perspectives are discussed.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26109447/