Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Heartworm infection rates in dogs in Kirikkale Turkey
By Yildiz, Kader et al.·Published in Turkiye parazitolojii dergisi·2008·Kirikkale University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Department of Parasitology·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: The prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis in dogs in Kirikkale.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A study found that heartworm infection is a significant risk for dogs in Kirikkale, with 5.8% of 172 dogs tested showing signs of the parasite Dirofilaria immitis in their blood. The affected dogs were mostly between 2 to 10 years old and included breeds like Siberian huskies, setters, pointers, and crossbred sheepdogs. Additionally, nearly 27.5% of the dogs had antibodies indicating a hidden (occult) infection. Pet owners in this area should be aware of the risks and consider regular heartworm testing and preventive treatments for their dogs.
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Abstract
Heartworm infection is one of the most important parasitic diseases in dogs. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of heartworm in dogs in Kirikkale. Blood samples of 172 dogs were collected. Microfilariae were detected in 10 (5.8%). dogs with the Knott technique. The anal and excretory pores stained with acid phosphates showed that the microfilariae belonged to Dirofilaria immitis. Microfilariae were found in dogs aged between 2-10 years, and especially in Siberian huskies, setters, pointers and crossbred sheepdogs. The serum samples of 142 dogs were analyzed using the commercial ELISA test kit for detection of anti-D. immitis antibody. The occult infection rate was found to be 27.46% in dogs. According to these results, Kirikkale region has a high risk for heartworm infection.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18985575/