Vet January 2017.indd

Angiostrongylosis, a cardiopulmonary disease caused by infection with the metastrongyloid nematode parasite Angiostrongylus vasorum, may lead to serious morbidity, and it continues to be a major health problem for dogs worldwide. This disease spreads to dogs by the ingestion of third-stage larval stage (L3) via the consumption of an intermediate or a paratenic host. The geographic distribution of A vasorum is increasing and the morbidity rate remains high despite progress in anthelmintic treatment and basic supportive care. Angiostrongylosis usually causes dyspnoea, coughing, lethargy, and depression in affected dogs. Dogs may also exhibit a variety of clinical presentations due to multiple organ involvement, which may lead to misdiagnosis and treatment delays. Without appropriate and timely treatment, further health complications can be developed and these may affect the respiratory, vascular, nervous, and/ or ocular systems. Therefore, delays in recognition and appropriate treatment of these health complications increase morbidity and mortality rates. This review discusses the main health complications associated with angiostrongylosis, along with appropriate interventions for improving treatment outcomes of these health conditions.