Severe Strongyloides stercoralis infection in a puppy from a metropolitan area of Melbourne, Australia: a need for heightened awareness of this zoonotic parasite.

Abstract

Strongyloides stercoralis, a soil-transmitted parasitic helminth, poses significant health risks for various species, including humans and canines. Despite previously being considered rare in Australia, recent findings indicate a higher than anticipated prevalence, suggesting it might be an underdiagnosed issue nationwide. This case report details a deceased 23-week-old female Boston Terrier that presented with severe gastrointestinal signs and died, despite intensive veterinary care. Subsequent histopathological and parasitological examinations confirmed a significant infestation of S. stercoralis, with severe intestinal damage typical of strongyloidiasis. This case underscores the capacity of S. stercoralis to cause severe disease and highlights the importance of considering strongyloidiasis in the differential diagnoses of gastrointestinal illness.