Heartworm disease and skin worm infection

Skin worm infection is considered a relatively new disease, but it has already become quite widespread, even in Budapest. It is transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause itching and subcutaneous nodules, which contain the adult worms. These parasites cannot be eliminated with conventional deworming medications and can only be removed surgically. The larvae of the worms can be detected through blood tests. Mosquitoes can also transmit the disease to humans, but fortunately, human infections are rare.

Heartworm disease, also transmitted by mosquitoes, is a potentially fatal condition. It is common in the southern regions of Hungary, as well as around rivers and lakes. Infection can be detected through blood testing.

More details can be found here (“A Zállatorvos” short film) and here.

What can you do to prevent skin worm and heartworm infections?

Screening for heartworm and skin worm infections in dogs: Heartworm and skin worm infections can often remain symptom-free for a long time, which is why regular screening is especially important. During the examination, the veterinarian takes a small blood sample from the dog, which is then analyzed using various methods to detect the presence of parasites.

The first signs of these diseases are not always obvious, but it is important to pay attention to them, as early detection allows for effective treatment.

Diagnostics may include the following tests:

Native blood smear (microfilaria detection): A fresh blood sample is examined under a microscope to detect the presence of moving larvae (microfilariae).
Knott’s test: 1–2 ml of blood is analyzed in a laboratory using a special procedure (sedimentation and staining), which allows for precise detection of circulating larvae.
Serological rapid test (ELISA): A test performed from a drop of blood that detects antigens characteristic of heartworm infection.

These tests allow for reliable detection of heartworm or skin worm infection, enabling timely initiation of appropriate treatment if needed.

Prevention

Main prevention options:

Use of larvicidal products:
Regular use of tablets or spot-on treatments containing special active ingredients can eliminate larvae that have entered the body. This is the most effective and reliable way to protect your dog from heartworm and skin worm infections.
Mosquito repellent protection:
The use of mosquito-repellent collars or spot-on products can reduce the risk of mosquitoes transmitting the infection to your dog.

A veterinarian can help you choose the most appropriate prevention program, taking into account your dog’s lifestyle, health status, and risk of exposure.

Examination

1. In spring, before the mosquito season begins, it is advisable to have your dog’s blood tested to rule out heartworm or skin worm infection. Early screening helps prevent serious health problems.

2. If the blood test is negative, continuous preventive treatment is recommended until autumn.
Important: Preventive treatment can cause serious side effects if larvae are already present in the dog’s bloodstream, therefore it should always be preceded by a blood test. Blood testing is performed on-site at our clinic. All three tests are recommended (native blood smear, Knott’s test, ELISA test).

From a professional standpoint, only two consecutive negative test results, performed at least six months apart, can reliably confirm that a dog is free of heartworm infection.

3. If the blood test is positive, we determine whether it is a heartworm or skin worm infection and immediately begin the appropriate specialized treatment to ensure your pet’s recovery.

For blood tests and information about preventive medications, please contact us by phone or email to book an appointment.

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