The tiny larvae pass through the second and third larval stages in the hosts connective tissue. In about four months, after the final molt, immature adults migrate to the right heart via the venous circulation. Once in the heart the worms mature and produce microfilaria. The presence of large adult worms cause physical obstruction plus pathological changes in the pulmonary arterial tree. Infected animals fatigue easily, cough and appear unthrifty.
Diagnosis is done by testing a small blood sample for antigen detection.
At WBVC we use the SNAP test for detecting adult infection. Infected animals can be treated, in hospital, with injections of Caparsolate or Immiticide. This is followed up with elimination of microfilaria using oral Interceptor. This procedure is not without risk, time consuming and costly. Prevention is the preferred route of action.