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Definition or overview
Hookworms are generally thought of small intestinal parasites but they are found on occasion in large numbers in the colon where they cause colitis. Hookworm induced colitis usually is chronic and characterized by mucoid, occasionally bloody diarrhea.
Etiology
Infestation with ancylostoma spp and uncinaria spp. Is more common in the dogs than cats. The ova are either ingested or transmitted though colostrums, but freshly hatched larvae can penetrate the skin Clinical presentation
Hookworm colitis should be suspected if a dog with chronic weight loss, diarrhea and hookworm eggs in the feces has signs of colonic involvement (mucoid feces increased frequency of defecation occasionally hematochezia)
Differential diagnosis
Chronic colitis
Diagnosis
At colonoscopy the colonic mucosa of these dogs appears hyperemic and small ulcers maybe seen. Many dogs have an eosinophilia
Treatment
Treatment for Hookworm is usually sufficient to control the colitis. They are , however, some dogs is which signs of colonic involvement persist long after the elimination of the parasite and these should be treated as for chronic colitis with Sulfasalazine.
Tags: Article Pets Animals Hookworm induced colitis
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Category Article 
