Work

Skrjabingylus chitwoodorum in a rabies-positive striped skunk in Texas

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: We describe here a case of the sinus roundworm, Skrjabingylus chitwoodorum, found incidentally in a rabies-positive striped skunk ( Mephitis mephitis) in Texas, USA. Skunks serve as a natural definitive host for this metastrongylid nematode in North America, in which infections result in observable damage to the host cranium, where adult parasites reside. Additionally, skunks are considered the primary reservoir of rabies in Texas. In November 2022, the animal was discovered in northern Texas displaying neurologic signs before euthanasia and submission to the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory for rabies testing. Direct fluorescent antibody testing indicated that the animal was rabies-positive, and, upon tissue collection, numerous adult nematodes were recovered from the cranium and identified as S. chitwoodorum by morphology and amplification of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene. Histologically, we found lymphohistiocytic meningitis in several loci and chronic sinusitis rostral to the cribriform plate. Due to behavioral abnormalities, we additionally tested for Toxoplasma gondii via PCR, but no parasite DNA was detected. Concurrent infection by S. chitwoodorum and rabies virus may contribute to neurologic signs in skunks.

Source: Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation

DOI: 10.1177/10406387241293421

Authors: Sarah Myers, Brianne Taylor, Ragan Wilson, Shannon Caseltine, Ruth C. Scimeca

Institution: Oklahoma State University

Language: English

Topic: Helminth infection and control

Subfield: Small Animals

Field: Veterinary

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,950