Dirofilariose em cão resgatado das enchentes em Baía da Traição - aspectos clínicos e sua importância na saúde pública: relato de caso

Abstract

Canine dirofilariasis, caused by the nematode Dirofilaria immitis and transmitted by hematophagous mosquitoes, is a disease of clinical, epidemiological, and zoonotic relevance. The present study aimed to report the case of a stray dog treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Paraíba, which presented respiratory, neurological, and ophthalmic signs. Despite the treatment instituted, the outcome was unfavorable, culminating in euthanasia. Necropsy revealed diffuse pulmonary edema, parasitic arteritis, and the presence of adult worms in the heart and pulmonary artery, confirming dirofilariasis as the determinant of the clinical condition. This is the first documented case of the disease in the municipality of Baía da Traição, PB, demonstrating the circulation of the parasite in an area previously not described. This finding has epidemiological importance, highlighting the need for surveillance and prevention in coastal regions of Paraíba, and public health relevance, especially due to the risk of exposure of the Potiguara indigenous communities and local tourist flow. Thus, this case reinforces the need for integrated strategies of prophylaxis, stray dog control, and health education to contain the spread of this zoonosis.