Neurologic complications after melarsomine dihydrochloride treatment for Dirofilaria immitis in three dogs.

Article Details

Citation
Copy to clipboard

Hettlich BF, Ryan K, Bergman RL, Marks SL, Lewis BC, Bahr A, Coates JR, Mansell J, Barton CL

Neurologic complications after melarsomine dihydrochloride treatment for Dirofilaria immitis in three dogs.

J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2003 Nov 15;223(10):1456-61, 1434.

PubMed ID
14627097 [ View in PubMed
]
Abstract

Melarsomine dihydrochloride is highly effective against both sexes of adult and L5 Dirofilaria immitis. Common adverse reactions include injection site irritation and reluctance to move. Neurologic complications associated with i.m. injection of melarsomine dihydrochloride for treatment of heartworm disease in 3 dogs are described. Different degrees of neurologic complications have been identified; the pathophysiologic features are unknown. It is speculated that the compound migrates out of the injection site via fascial planes and causes an ascending inflammation along nerve roots. The resulting extradural cord compression secondary to extensive inflammation and necrosis of epidural fat could induce a variety of neurologic deficits. Alternatively, inappropriate injection technique may result in direct contact of melarsomine with neural tissue. A heightened awareness of proper injection technique might prevent the development of most neurologic complications.

DrugBank Data that Cites this Article

Drugs