Heart failure caused by toxoplasmosis in a fennec fox (Fennecus zerda)

J Am Anim Hosp Assoc. 2004 Nov-Dec;40(6):501-7. doi: 10.5326/0400501.

Abstract

A male fennec fox (Fennecus zerda) kit was examined for lethargy, inappetence, and weight loss. Clinical findings included respiratory distress, a gallop rhythm, and retinochoroiditis. Radiography indicated pleural effusion and cardiomegaly. Echocardiographic findings included left ventricular dilatation, low left ventricular ejection fraction, and atrioventricular valvular regurgitation. Necropsy findings were compatible with a diagnosis of congestive heart failure caused by myocarditis. Histopathology showed a disseminated infection with Toxoplasma gondii causing myocarditis, skeletal polymyositis, gastrointestinal myositis, and panuveitis. Toxoplasma-induced myocarditis should be included in the differential diagnosis of heart failure and retinochoroiditis in the fennec fox.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Foxes / parasitology*
  • Heart Failure / diagnostic imaging
  • Heart Failure / parasitology
  • Heart Failure / veterinary*
  • Male
  • Radiography
  • Toxoplasma / isolation & purification
  • Toxoplasmosis, Animal / complications*
  • Toxoplasmosis, Animal / diagnosis
  • Toxoplasmosis, Animal / diagnostic imaging