Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Retrospective study on Encephalitozoon cuniculi infections in 118 cat and 9 dog eyes.
- Journal:
- Veterinary ophthalmology
- Year:
- 2025
- Authors:
- Hofmann-Wellenhof, Sophie & Nell, Barbara
- Affiliation:
- Department for Companion Animals and Horses
Plain-English summary
This study looked at eye infections caused by a tiny parasite called Encephalitozoon cuniculi in 75 cats and 7 dogs. The researchers found that the most common eye problem linked to this infection was cataracts, which are cloudy areas in the lens of the eye, often accompanied by inflammation and other eye issues. They determined that testing for antibodies against the parasite and analyzing lens samples were the best ways to diagnose the condition. The most effective treatment involved a surgical procedure to remove the cataracts, along with medications to reduce inflammation and fight the parasite. Overall, the treatment showed promising results for pets affected by this infection.
Abstract
PURPOSE: This study aims to inform about the clinical image, diagnostic possibilities, and treatment options for cats and dogs diagnosed with ocular encephalitozoonosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Medical records of 7 dogs and 75 cats with ocular encephalitozoonosis presented at the Clinical Unit of Ophthalmology of the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna between 08/2006 and 02/2022 have been compiled. Diagnosis was based on the presence of cataracts and positive antibody titer against Encephalitozoon cuniculi. Patient history, details on the characteristics of the cataracts, level of antibody titers, and the treatment regimen were summarized, as are the results of histological stainings of surgical samples to determine the presence of Encephalitozoon cuniculi, as well as PCR analyses to identify its sub-strains. RESULTS: Our analysis of the clinical data shows that focal cortical anterior cataracts often associated with anterior uveitis and lesions in the fundus are the most prevalent manifestation of ocular encephalitozoonosis in cats and dogs. CONCLUSION: Serological testing and PCR analysis of lens material are the most important diagnostic tools. Timely phacoemulsification with adjuvant anti-inflammatory and antiparasitic medication is the most promising therapy for Encephalitozoon cuniculi-induced cataracts.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39610030/