Macrocyclic lactones and Dirofilaria immitis microfilariae.

Although there has been extensive veterinary focus on both the effectiveness of macrocyclic lactones for heartworm prevention in dogs and their adulticidal effects, little attention has been directed to their effects on heartworm microfilariae. With routine use of macrocyclic lactones, in some cases knowingly, in dogs with existing heartworm infections, veterinarians should recognize the benefits, and possible complications, arising from this behavior. Macrocyclic lactones remain our only class of heartworm prevention available, and preserving their effectiveness is critical.

Survey of 11 western states for heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) infection, heartworm diagnostic and prevention protocols, and fecal examination protocols for gastrointestinal parasites.

Heartworm infection in dogs and cats in the western United States is a fairly new phenomenon, and for this reason it is often considered to be of minimal significance. The purpose of this survey was to collect data from 11 western states (Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming) in an effort to assess awareness of heartworm disease and identify areas in which improvement in understanding is needed. To accomplish this goal, veterinary clinics and hospitals in these states were sent a one-page survey in early 2006.