Prevalencia de Dirofilaria immitis en perros (Canis lupus familiaris)

Silvia Melina Castro-Mendoza; Nahomy Elizabeth Cerón-Cedeño; Gustavo Adolfo Campozano-Marcillo

doi:10.56124/allpa.v9i17.0146

Authors

Castro-Mendoza Silvia Melina Escuela Superior Politécnica Agropecuaria de Manabí Manuel Félix López. Calceta, Ecuador. https://orcid.org/0009-0006-6509-0387
Cerón-Cedeño Nahomy Elizabeth Escuela Superior Politécnica Agropecuaria de Manabí Manuel Félix López. Calceta, Ecuador. https://orcid.org/0009-0008-0120-9558
Campozano-Marcillo Gustavo Adolfo Escuela Superior Politécnica Agropecuaria de Manabí Manuel Félix López. Calceta, Ecuador. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8969-2856

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56124/allpa.v9i17.0146

Keywords:

Veterinary diagnosis; parasitic diseases; prevalence; one health; zoonoses

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.

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