Ancylostoma caninum

Ancylostoma caninum is a parasitic nematode (roundworm) that causes hookworm infection primarily in dogs, but it can also infect cats and humans. This parasite is a significant cause of disease in pets and a concern for public health due to its zoonotic potential, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Ancylostoma caninum involves several stages, starting with the excretion of eggs in the feces of an infected host. These eggs hatch into larvae in the environment, which can then infect a new host in several ways: through skin contact, ingestion of the larvae, or, less commonly, through the milk of an infected mother to her offspring. Once inside the host, the larvae migrate to the intestines, where they mature into adult worms, attach to the intestinal wall, and feed on the host's blood, leading to anemia and other nutritional deficiencies.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

In dogs, the infection can cause a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe illness, depending on the intensity of the infection. Common signs include diarrhea, weight loss, a dull coat, and in severe cases, anemia. Puppies are particularly susceptible to severe outcomes due to their underdeveloped immune systems. In humans, the infection can lead to a condition known as cutaneous larva migrans, characterized by itchy, serpiginous tracks on the skin where the larvae migrate.

Diagnosis of Ancylostoma caninum infection is typically made by identifying the characteristic eggs in the feces of an infected individual through a process known as fecal flotation.

Prevention and Control

Prevention of Ancylostoma caninum infection involves regular deworming of pets, proper disposal of pet feces, and avoiding contact with potentially contaminated soil or sand. Effective control also includes public health measures to reduce environmental contamination and education on the risks of zoonotic transmission.

Treatment

Treatment for Ancylostoma caninum infection includes the administration of anthelmintic drugs, which are effective in killing the adult worms. In cases of severe anemia, supportive care, including blood transfusions, may be necessary. Regular follow-up is important to ensure the complete eradication of the parasite.