Hyperfibrinolysis in a dog with strongyloidiasis

Abstract

A female entire dog with a history of travel from Eastern Europe, coprophagia, and absent prophylactic treatment against parasites, developed excessive haemorrhage during elective ovariohysterectomy, resulting in abandonment of the procedure. Physical examination and abdominal ultrasound were unremarkable. Routine blood analysis was unremarkable and there was no support for angiostrongylosis or the presence of common travel-associated infectious agents. Viscoelastic testing demonstrated hyperfibrinolysis and Baermann's faecal analysis documented Strongyloides stercoralis infection. They were treated with ivermectin, with a resolution of hyperfibrinolysis. This is the first description of transient hyperfibrinolysis associated with strongyloidiasis in the dog, although hyperfibrinolysis has been described in association with other helminth infections in the dog and in other host species. Strongyloidiasis should be considered as an uncommon cause of acquired clinical hyperfibrinolysis, particularly in dogs where common differentials have been excluded.