Linguatula serrata was diagnosed for the first time in an imported dog in Finland.
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The dog originated from Spain, where Linguatula infections are not common.
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The parasite was identified by DNA barcoding.
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The dog carried the zoonotic infection without clinical signs.
Abstract
Linguatula serrata is a pentastomid parasite infecting carnivores as definitive hosts and herbivores as intermediate hosts. In carnivores, including dogs, it usually parasitises the nasal cavity and sinuses, causing upper respiratory signs. This case report presents the first canine Linguatula case in Finland in an imported dog originating from Spain. In addition to the unremarkable clinical history of the dog, the treatment, parasite's morphology and molecular analysis are described, and the zoonotic potential is discussed.