Canine Schistosomiasis: The Diagnosis and Treatment of Heterobilharzia Americana

Presentation Description / Summary: Canine schistosomiasis, caused by the trematode Heterobilharzia americana, is a recognized cause of gastrointestinal and hepatic disease in dogs. Although this condition is traditionally regarded as being restricted to the Southern US, particularly in the Gulf Coast states, infected dogs have recently been reported in novel areas, including Utah. This change in geographical distribution is likely due to the recruitment of an additional intermediate host, the snail Galba humilis. This amphibious snail is widely distributed across the USA, and this change in the biology of H. americana requires a paradigm shift in our understanding of the impact of this infection in dogs. This lecture will review the pathogenesis, clinical signs, diagnosis and treatment of canine schistosomiasis, and will include 'pearls' that should prompt a practitioner to consider this possibility.

Learner Outcomes: At the end of this lecture, the learner will be able to: 1. Identify patients in which infection with Heterobilharzia should be considered 2. Create an appropriate treatment plan for patients with schistosomiasis 3. Discuss the epidemiology of this complex condition