Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Would anyone know where to get info. concerning lung flukes present in reptiles?

Thanks

In snakes, there are a couple you are likely to encounter. One is not actually a fluke, but a nematode worm. These are the Rhabdias sp. lungworms. They are related to Strogyloid worms. These have direct life cycle (don't need an intermediate host)and can build up large numbers in the host snake. They are commonly picked up by snakes that eat frogs, toads and lizards. Treatment is with either Panacur or Ivermectin.

The second type is actually a Trematode fluke. It can be found in the lungs, kidneys, mouth, esophagus and intestines. They normally don't cause a great deal of damage in the lungs or mouth, but can lead to secondary infections or obstruction if there are a lot of them. They can cause serious damage if they are present in the kidneys. Treatment is with Praziquantel (Droncit). They are also acquired by eating frogs or toads.

Not sure where you're located but there are several university veterinary colleges across the country. Several have diagnostic veterinary parasitologists that could give you more info than you probably wanted and most are more than willing to share the info they have. You might also get lucky calling the herp department at a nearby zoo.

If I knew what info you were looking for specifically, in which reptile, I could probably find it but for a general view it will take more than the paper brain I have.

If you want and can't find the info otherwise I can message you privately with the names of one team of vet parasitologists.
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