Dog and cat roundworm infection from pets

Image of roundworm in the body. Photo: BVCC

The patient was ordered to undergo parasitological testing and allergy antibody testing. The results showed that the patient was positive for Toxocara spp.

When the test results were available, the doctors consulted and determined that the bump on the patient's hand was caused by the movement of roundworm larvae under the skin.

Through medical history, it was known that the patient was a farmer and was raising 8 animals, including 3 dogs and 5 cats.

After intensive treatment, the patient's itching completely disappeared, and the rash on his hand healed completely. The patient was discharged in stable health condition and scheduled for a follow-up visit in 1 month to retest for anti-cat and dog roundworm antibodies. If the antibodies are still present, the doctors will consider the level of reduction to decide whether to continue treatment to completely eliminate the parasite from the body or not, to avoid dangerous complications.

Dr. Vu Minh Dien - Deputy Head of the Department of Internal Medicine - said: Roundworms are common parasites in dogs and cats. They can infect humans through the digestive tract. When humans come into contact with soil or water contaminated with worm eggs from dog or cat feces, the worm eggs can enter the body through the mouth and develop into larvae. These larvae move through body tissues, causing many symptoms, the most common of which are itching, rashes and skin rashes.

Dr. Dien added that the rate of infection with dog and cat roundworms in the community is currently very high, especially in areas where many people keep dogs and cats as pets. Previously, dogs and cats were only kept to guard houses or hunt mice, but now they have become popular pets, increasing the risk of parasitic infection in humans. People with positive antibodies and symptoms such as itching and rash should immediately go to reputable medical facilities for timely testing and treatment.

“Early detection and treatment of roundworm disease in dogs and cats is very important, because if not treated promptly, the parasite can cause many serious complications, affecting long-term health. In addition to treatment, preventive measures such as regular deworming of dogs and cats and maintaining personal hygiene are needed to minimize the risk of infection," Dr. Dien emphasized.

Dog and cat roundworms cause itching all over the body.

Source: https://laodong.vn/suc-khoe/nhiem-giun-dua-cho-meo-tu-thu-cung-1379379.ldo