Current data for the prevention of vertical transmission Toxocara canis and Ancylostoma caninum in dogs.

摘要

Objective: Presentation of recent findings about significance and biology of vertical transmission of T. canis and A. caninum in dogs and the possibilities to prevent this way of distribution. Material and methods: Review and comparison of results of recent studies investigating the efficacy of different anthelmintics against reactivated larvae in bitches and their efficacy to prevent vertical transmission from the bitch to the puppies. Results: Macrocydic lactones show a very high efficacy against reactivated larvae. Especially moxidectin, which is registered for dogs was able to reliably prevent T. canis infections in puppies after two subcutaneous applications on day 40 and 55 or A. caninum infections after a single dermal treatment on day 56 of the pregnancy. Ivermectin and doramectin, registered for the treatment of parasite infections in livestock, are also highly efficacious in high dosages. Redesignation for the prevention of vertical transmission in bitches, however, can hardly be justified. The benzimidazole fenbendazole, which has this label claim in the UK, is also highly efficacious, but only when administered daily from day 40 of pregnancy until parturition which seems hardly practicable. Selamectin, also registered for dogs, shows high efficacy as well although it is still uncertain if a reliable high efficacy can be achieved with the recommended dosage. Conclusion: If applied and dosed appropriately most of the tested anthelmintics were able to prevent vertical transmission but with regard to efficacy, tolerability and practicability moxidectin seems to be the best choice for this indication. Clinical relevance: The prevention of vertical transmission of T. canis and A. caninum is an effective measure to protect humans and dogs from those parasites. Currently no registered product for the prevention of vertical transmission of helminthic infections in bitches is available in Germany. However, there are registered products to deworm bitches. This indication is also given if the bitch hosts reactivated larvae.