Ancylostoma caninum

Ancylostoma caninum

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  Anterior end of Ancylostoma caninum

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  Canine hookworm egg

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  Hookworms

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  Ancylostoma caninum

Ancylostoma caninum

Ancylostoma caninum is a species of hookworm that primarily infects dogs, but can also affect other mammals, including humans. It is a parasitic nematode that resides in the small intestine of its host, where it attaches to the intestinal wall and feeds on blood, leading to anemia and other health issues.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Ancylostoma caninum involves several stages:

1. Eggs: The adult female hookworm lays eggs in the host's intestine, which are then excreted in the feces.
2. Larvae: The eggs hatch in the environment, releasing larvae. These larvae undergo several molts, developing into infective third-stage larvae.
3. Infection: The infective larvae can penetrate the skin of a new host or be ingested. Once inside the host, they migrate to the lungs, are coughed up, swallowed, and eventually reach the small intestine.
4. Maturation: In the small intestine, the larvae mature into adult worms, completing the cycle.

Pathogenesis

Ancylostoma caninum causes hookworm disease in dogs, characterized by symptoms such as diarrhea, weight loss, and lethargy. The worms attach to the intestinal mucosa, causing blood loss and leading to iron deficiency anemia. In severe cases, especially in puppies, the infection can be fatal.

Zoonotic Potential

Ancylostoma caninum is of zoonotic concern, meaning it can infect humans. The larvae can penetrate human skin, causing a condition known as cutaneous larva migrans, characterized by itchy, serpiginous tracks on the skin. Although the larvae do not mature into adult worms in humans, the condition can be uncomfortable and requires medical attention.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Ancylostoma caninum infection is typically made through fecal examination to identify hookworm eggs. In some cases, blood tests may be used to assess the severity of anemia and other related conditions.

Treatment and Control

Treatment of Ancylostoma caninum infection in dogs involves the use of anthelmintic medications, such as pyrantel pamoate, fenbendazole, or ivermectin. Preventive measures include regular deworming, maintaining good hygiene, and controlling environmental contamination to reduce the risk of infection.

Related Pages

• Hookworm
• Nematode
• Zoonosis
• Parasitic disease