Salmon
poisoning disease (SPD) has been identified in the Pacific NW down through
northern California. Because of the name, most people think of it as some sort
of food poisoning obtained by eating bad salmon. The organism responsible for
SPD is actually a small microscopic (rickettsial) organism located within the
immature form of a fluke that colonizes the flesh of salmon. If raw fish are
ingested by dogs, the fluke will mature within the intestine and release the
rickettsial organism that causes disease.
Symptoms
usually occur within five to seven days of ingestion of infected fish and may
include fever up to 104F, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and weakness.
The body’s lymph nodes are usually enlarged and can be palpated on exam.
Diagnosis is often made by identifying the fluke eggs on a fecal exam, but a
CBC/chemistry, abdominal x-rays or ultrasound should be performed to rule out
any concurrent diseases.
Patients
are generally hospitalized for aggressive supportive care due to rapid onset of
symptoms. Diarrhea and vomiting can be severe or become bloody, so fluid
support is required. Medications include a tetracycline antibiotic to eradicate
the rickettsial organism as well as a general deworming medication to treat for
the flukes. If SPD is caught early and treated appropriately, the prognosis is
good and patients usually recovery fully.
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