Clinical-parasitological and epidemiological review of the nematode Acanthocheilonema reconditum

Abstract

Acanthocheilonema (Dipetalonema) reconditum is a less pathogenic species of filaria from the superfamily Filarioidea, and which parasitizes in the subcutaneous connective tissue of dogs, hyenas and jackals. The results of epidemiological studies indicate the zoonotic potential of A. reconditum, bearing in mind it can cause infections with clinical disorders in humans. This filaria is spread globally and it is mostly described in geographical areas such as the Mediterranean Basin, the Middle East, South Africa, South America and Oceania, where it is the only or is the most common filaria that infects dogs. The prevalence and distribution of A. reconditum depend mainly on the vector population, impact of environmental factors, and lifestyle of pets and their owners. Apart from the standard parasitological techniques for differential diagnostics of filariae, more attention is being dedicated to the development of protocols that are based on the simultaneous detection of specific DNA regions in each type of individual filaria. Due to its importance for public health, effective vector control is required, as well as regular preventive examinations, reliable diagnostics and therapy for A. reconditum in dogs, and continuous cooperation between veterinary and medical surgeons.