Prevalence and Risk Factors for <i>Pearsonema plica</i> Infection in Hunting Dogs in Serbia.

ABSTRACT: Pearsonema plica is a nematode commonly found in wild carnivores and occasionally in domestic dogs, where infections are often overlooked. This cross-sectional study investigated its prevalence in 88 hunting dogs from five districts in Serbia between October 2021 and May 2024. Urine samples were examined via light microscopy, and molecular analyses (PCR and sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene). Presence of P. plica eggs was found in 20.45% of the tested dogs. Phylogenetic analysis clustered the obtained isolates with reference sequences of P. plica. Hunting activity within two months prior to sampling and irregular or infrequent deworming were significantly associated with higher infection rates. Dogs showing urinary symptoms were more likely to test positive. This study p

SUBMITTER: Ilic T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12562199 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature