Prevalencia de Dirofilaria immitis en perros (Canis lupus familiaris)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56124/allpa.v9i17.0146Palabras clave:
Diagnóstico veterinario; enfermedades parasitarias; prevalencia; una salud; zoonosisResumen
La dirofilariosis canina causada por Dirofilaria immitis representa una zoonosis de relevancia mundial que afecta tanto la salud animal como la humana, en el marco del enfoque “Una Salud”. El objetivo de esta revisión narrativa fue analizar la prevalencia de la infección en perros y su impacto en la salud pública, considerando la variabilidad geográfica, los factores de riesgo asociados y la evolución de los métodos diagnósticos. La metodología se basó en la búsqueda y análisis crítico de literatura científica publicada en bases de datos especializadas, con énfasis en estudios epidemiológicos recientes que reportan prevalencia, técnicas diagnósticas y factores condicionantes. Los resultados evidencian una prevalencia variable a nivel global, con valores que fluctúan entre 1,7 % y 58,9 %, influenciada principalmente por el clima, la movilidad animal, la edad y prácticas de manejo. Asimismo, se identificaron discrepancias relevantes entre pruebas diagnósticas, lo que limita la comparación directa de estudios y subraya la necesidad de protocolos estandarizados. Se concluye que la dirofilariosis canina continúa siendo un desafío sanitario, cuya magnitud requiere un abordaje integral que combine vigilancia epidemiológica, diagnóstico oportuno y prevención adaptada a contextos locales. Además, se recomienda el desarrollo de investigaciones que incorporen herramientas moleculares y consideren el efecto del cambio climático para anticipar escenarios de riesgo y mejorar las estrategias de control.
Palabras clave: Diagnóstico veterinario; enfermedades parasitarias; prevalencia; una salud; zoonosis.
Abstract
Canine dirofilariasis, caused by Dirofilaria immitis, is a globally significant zoonosis affecting both animal and human health, within the framework of the One Health approach. The objective of this narrative review was to analyze the prevalence of the infection in dogs and its impact on public health, considering geographical variability, associated risk factors, and the evolution of diagnostic methods. The methodology was based on a search and critical analysis of scientific literature published in specialized databases, with an emphasis on recent epidemiological studies reporting prevalence, diagnostic techniques, and contributing factors. The results show a variable prevalence globally, with values ranging from 1.7% to 58.9%, influenced primarily by climate, animal mobility, age, and management practices. Furthermore, significant discrepancies were identified between diagnostic tests, limiting direct comparisons between studies and highlighting the need for standardized protocols. It is concluded that canine dirofilariasis continues to be a health challenge, the magnitude of which requires a comprehensive approach that combines epidemiological surveillance, timely diagnosis and prevention adapted to local contexts. Furthermore, research incorporating molecular tools and considering the impact of climate change is recommended to anticipate risk scenarios and improve control strategies.
Keywords: Veterinary diagnosis; parasitic diseases; prevalence; one health; zoonoses.
Fecha de recepción: 07 de octubre de 2025; Fecha de aceptación: 15 de diciembre de 2025; Fecha de publicación: 09 de enero del 2026.
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