Parvoviral myocarditis in a 5-week-old Dachshund

Abstract

Objective: To describe a case of myocarditis associated with naturally occurring canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2).

Case summary: A 5-week-old male intact Dachshund dog presented for acute respiratory distress. Limited diagnostic tests prior to the dog experiencing cardiopulmonary arrest included a lateral thoracic radiograph, which indicated cardiomegaly and diffuse unstructured pulmonary infiltrate. Necropsy was performed and results identified a lymphoplasmacytic myocarditis with positive CPV-2 immunohistochemistry within the myocardium.

Unique information provided: This report describes the natural occurrence of CPV-2-associated myocarditis. In addition to highlighting this rare form of canine parvovirus, cardiomyopathy in survivors of the acute viral myocarditis phase is reviewed.

Keywords: CHF; CPV; canine; congestive heart failure; dog; parvo.