Strongyloides

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Strongyloides stercoralis - Courtesy of the Laboratory of Parasitology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine
Strongyloides stercoralis - Joaquim Castellà Veterinary Parasitology Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
Strongyloides larvae - Joaquim Castellà Veterinary Parasitology Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
Strongyloides - Joaquim Castellà Veterinary Parasitology Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona

STRONGYLOIDES WESTERI

General

  • Rhabditoid, small intestine.
  • Commonest in foals <6months old.
  • FIRST PARASITE TO WHICH FOALS ARE EXPOSED.

Morphology

  • <6mm long, similar to small trichostrongyles.
  • Only female worms parasitic.
  • Long oesophagus (up to one third of body length).

Life-Cycle

  • Parasitic and free-living (non-parasitic) phases.
  • Prepatent period 1week (embryonated egg, 50-60µm).
  • Infection by:
    • ingestion of L3 in mare's milk or grass; and
    • skin penetration.

Pathogenicity

  • Foals - severe enteritis, diarrhoea (heavy burdens).
  • Adults - normally immune; may act as carriers, e.g. mare.

Control

  • Regular anthelmintic treatment.
  • Good hygiene.