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Aberrant extradural spinal migration of Spirocerca lupi : four dogs

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Authors

Du Plessis, C.J.
Keller, Ninette
Millward, Ian Ralph

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Blackwell

Abstract

Spirocerca lupi is a nematode mainly affecting dogs but has been found in other animals, particularly carnivores. Anatomical areas of typical and aberrant migration vary. This report describes four cases of Spirocerca lupi causing neurological symptoms, similar to thoracolumbar disc syndrome, as a result of aberrant migration of the nematode into the spinal canal. In two of the cases, the nematode could be demonstrated intraoperatively. The third was discovered on post-mortem examination, while the fourth case displayed compelling evidence of Spirocerca lupi involvement. Surgical removal of the Spirocerca lupi nematode would be the treatment of choice in cases of spinal migration, with therapeutic and preventive treatment with doramectin instituted to treat remote sites and prevent re-infection. In areas endemic for spirocercosis, Spirocerca lupi should be considered as an important differential diagnosis in cases that are presented with clinical signs suggestive of a spinal cord lesion.

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Keywords

Spirocerca lupi, Canine, Spine

Sustainable Development Goals

Citation

Du Plessis, CJ, Keller, N, & Millward, IR 2007. ‘Aberrant extradural spinal migration of Spirocerca lupi: four dogs’, Journal of Small Animal Practice, Vol.48, Issue 5, pp. 275-278 [www.blackwellpublishing.com/journals/jsap]