Infectious Dx: Canine Parvovirus Infection

Question 1

Clinical signs of canine parvovirus occur how many days post infection?

Answer 1

4 to 10 days after

Question 2

Clincally, what is often seen in canine patients with parvoviral infections?

Answer 2

Vomiting (can cause secondary esophagitis), intestinal bleeding, hematochezia, and hypoperfusion of tissues

Question 3

If a patient tests negative for Parvovirus on an in house ELISA immunoassays, but clinically appears to have it, what should you do?

Answer 3

Retest in 36 to 48 hrs, initiate supportive therapies in the meantime, and isolate

Question 4

While direct lymphocytolysis occurs with parvoviral infections, followed by a neutropenia, what leukocyte can be used for monitoring myelopoiesis?

Answer 4

Monocytes, since they have a reduced rate of production compared to neutrophils

Question 5

What is an important differential diagnosis for parvovirus, and also a potential sequela in dogs?

Answer 5

Intussusception

Question 6

Supportive treatments for canine parvoviral infections include:

Answer 6

• IVF therapy (aggressive isotonic fluids initially, followed by reduction or colloids) with potassium or dextrose supplementation
• Broad spectrum antimicrobial therapy (Ampicillin and Amikacin or Enrofloxacin)
• Nutritional support
• Antiemetic therapy (Maropitant, Reglan, Ondansetron)
• Antivirals (Feline IFN tau, potentially Tamiflu)
• Gastroprotectants (antihistamine, PPI’s)