Can nematode infection cause internal bleeding in dogs? A case of Dirofilaria immitis infection in cavitary fluids

Abstract

A 9-year-old dog was presented with weight loss, respiratory effort, and an enlarged abdomen. Imaging studies and exploratory surgery showed pulmonary and splenic masses and bi-cavitary effusion, later classified as hemorrhage. Cytology of the peritoneal and pleural fluids also revealed several microfilariae. Immunologic and molecular analyses confirmed Dirofilaria immitis infection and histopathology of the spleen indicated a cavernous endothelial proliferation with undefined etiology (hemangiosarcoma vs reaction to parasite infestation). The nematode larvae are speculated to have entered body cavities via erratic migration or via hemorrhage and visceral lesions to be related to parasitism. Nematode infection should be considered as a differential diagnosis for internal bleeding of undetermined origin.