Also known as: ver du cœur
La dirofilariose cardiaque est causée par le ver parasite Dirofilaria immitis, transmis par les moustiques. Les vers adultes vivent dans les artères pulmonaires et le cœur, provoquant inflammation, lésions vasculaires et, à terme, une insuffisance cardiaque et pulmonaire. Les signes se développent lentement et comprennent toux, intolérance à l'effort et, dans les cas avancés, accumulation de liquide et collapsus. Elle est évitable par un traitement préventif régulier mais grave et coûteuse à traiter une fois installée.
Canine heartworm disease is a potentially fatal parasitic infection caused by Dirofilaria immitis and spread by mosquitoes.
A mosquito bite deposits immature worms that migrate and mature into foot-long adults in the heart and pulmonary arteries over several months.
Early infection is silent. As worm burden grows, dogs develop a soft cough, fatigue, reduced exercise tolerance, weight loss, and in severe cases fluid accumulation, collapse, or sudden caval syndrome.
Antigen blood tests and microscopic detection of microfilariae confirm infection, while radiographs and echocardiography assess severity.
Treatment uses a staged protocol of melarsomine injections to kill adult worms, plus strict exercise restriction and supportive medications. The process is lengthy and carries risk.
Monthly or long-acting preventives reliably stop infection and are far safer than treatment; annual testing is recommended.
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your veterinarian.
