Clinical presentation and diagnosis of pulmonary hydatidosis in a cow mimicking to aspiration pneumonia

Abstract

AbstractHydatid cyst, the larval stage of Echinococcus spp., is one of the most significant zoonotic helminths affecting humans and animals, particularly livestock. The disease has an enormous economic impact not only on livestock and wildlife but also on human health. Here, we present an interesting case of hydatidosis in a 5‐year‐old cow that was confirmed by postmortem examination. Body temperature was slightly elevated, but the cow showed severe dyspnoea. During clinical examination, we heard a crackling sound, suggestive of aspiration pneumonia but there was no history of drenching/gavage. Considering aspiration pneumonia, the animal was treated with antibiotic, antihistaminic, bronchodilator and other supportive drugs, but there was no recovery, and the cow died. Postmortem examination revealed multiple hydatid cysts in lungs. One big hydatid cyst was found at the tracheal bifurcation pressing the airways, which might be the possible cause of severe respiratory distress and death of the animal.