Canine parvovirus Flashcards
(14 cards)
What is Canine Parvovirus (CPV)?
A highly contagious small, non-enveloped, single-stranded DNA virus causing viral enteritis in dogs, first discovered in 1978. Three strains exist: CPV-2a, CPV-2b, CPV-2c.
What is the route of transmission of CPV?
Primarily faecal-oral; rarely transplacental. The virus infects lymphoid tissue and rapidly dividing cells like intestinal crypts, bone marrow, and myocardium.
What are the clinical signs of CPV infection?
Fever, lethargy, anorexia, vomiting, severe bloody diarrhoea, dehydration, villous collapse, bacterial translocation, neutropenia, and in young puppies, myocarditis.
What breeds are at increased risk for CPV?
Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers due to poor humoral response and persistent maternal antibodies. Intact males and seasonal factors also increase risk.
How is CPV diagnosed?
Clinical signs, leukopenia, neutropenia, faecal ELISA antigen snap tests, PCR for confirmation, electron microscopy, serology (haemagglutination inhibition), post-mortem histology.
What are the limitations of ELISA testing for CPV?
Low sensitivity compared to PCR; weak positives post-vaccination; early tests may be negative if viral shedding is low; repeat testing may be needed.
What is the recommended vaccination protocol for CPV?
WSAVA recommends vaccines at 8-9 weeks, 3-4 weeks later, and at 14-16 weeks; booster at 12 months, then every 1–4 years.
What is the window of susceptibility for CPV in puppies?
Between 6 weeks and 6 months due to declining maternal antibodies interfering with vaccination but insufficient to prevent infection.
How is CPV treated?
Supportive care: fluid and electrolyte therapy, antimicrobials for secondary infections, antiemetics, cautious analgesia, early enteral nutrition, and barrier nursing.
What is the role of fluid therapy in CPV treatment?
Correct shock and dehydration, anticipate fluid losses. Crystalloids (e.g., lactated Ringer’s) and colloids for hypoproteinaemia, potassium and glucose supplementation as needed.
How is antimicrobial therapy used in CPV cases?
To prevent sepsis due to bacterial translocation. Options include cephalosporins, potentiated amoxicillin, metronidazole; avoid enrofloxacin in growing dogs.
What antiemetics are used for CPV and why?
Metoclopramide (increases GI motility), maropitant (potent NK-1 blocker), ondansetron. Helps reduce vomiting and improve comfort and nutrition.
What are the risks and benefits of early enteral nutrition in CPV?
Improves mucosal repair and immunity, reduces bacterial translocation, accelerates recovery. Should be started as soon as vomiting subsides or can be tolerated.
What are possible long-term complications post-CPV infection?
Persistent intestinal villous atrophy, chronic gastrointestinal dysfunction, intussusception, chronic diarrhoea, and in puppies under 8 weeks, myocarditis and myocardial dysfunction.
