Examining Gongylonema Neoplasticum From Rats in Tabriz City (Northwest of Iran): A Case Report

Aims Different species of gongylonema are common parasites of rats that can be accidentally transmitted to humans and cause disease. This study aims to identify and investigate the morphology of Gongylonema neoplasticum and its zoonotic significance in Tabriz rats. Methods & Materials In this study, 100 rats (29 Rattus rattus and 71 Rattus norvegicus) were caught from different parts of Tabriz City in northwestern Iran using live traps. In the study areas, edible beetles are abundant and in almost all trapping areas local people complained about the presence of beetles. These beetles host the mediator of gongylonema parasites and easily infect animals, such as mice, rabbits, cats, cattle, and accidentally humans. Findings In this study, the esophagus and stomach of rats were carefully examined for infection with gongylonema and only one of the following species was isolated from them, Gongylonema neoplasticum. Conclusion Due to the high abundance of beetles, high levels of Gongylonema neoplasticum were not reported, which can be considered in terms of human infections. More parasitological studies should be done in different geographical regions of Iran and other countries.