Online Gallery: Hookworm

ArticleLast Updated March 20122 min readWeb-Exclusive

Hookworms are common intestinal parasites of both dogs and cats. Ancylostoma caninum infects dogs, Ancylostoma tubaeforme infects cats, and Ancylostoma braziliense infects both dogs and cats. Clinical signs vary from marked anemia to mild diarrhea, but diagnosis is made in all cases by identification of ova in a fecal sample.

This slide series includes a sampling of images related to hookworm infection, courtesy of Dr. Steve Jones and Merial Animal Health. (The exact species of hookworm was not identified in any of these images.)

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  • Adult hookworms are seen adjacent to a cotton-tipped swab for size comparison.

A close-up view of inflamed tissue in a veterinary patient, showing several small, white nematodes embedded in the red, swollen mucosa. The surrounding area displays signs of irritation and possible infection, indicating a parasitic infestation.

  • Adult hookworms were identified within the lumen of the small intestine upon necropsy of a dog. Worms attach using sharp teeth and actually siphon the blood from the host.

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  • A microscopic image of hookworm egg. The centrifugation technique tends to recover a larger percentage of parasite eggs and oocysts than passive flotation.

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  • Both adult and larval stages of hookworms are seen within the lumen of a hyperemic intestine.

A close-up view of a dog's hindquarters shows a small amount of blood near the tail, with a blood-stained cotton swab lying on a white, textured surface. The dog's fur is dark, and the setting appears to be a clinical examination area.

  • Hematochezia is obvious on this bloody cotton-tipped swab. Hookworms mature and start feeding before they are sexually mature. So it is important to remember that clinical signs may precede the appearance of eggs in feces.

A veterinarian gently examines the mouth of a sedated dog, revealing its teeth and gums, while the dog's head is supported on a clean, white surface. The dog is wearing a green bandage around its neck, indicating it has received medical attention.

  • The tell-tale pale mucous membranes associated with anemia can be seen in this puppy. Anemia can sometimes get worse post-deworming because bleeding ulcerative lesions can be left behind. These can continue to bleed for several days.

A close-up view of a section of intestine displaying abnormal dark coloration and a slimy texture, indicative of potential pathology. The background is a light-colored surface, emphasizing the contrast of the intestinal tissue.

  • Dark tarry melena is visible within the lumen of this small intestine, as found on necropsy of a puppy with hookworms.

A close-up view of a surgical site in a small animal's abdomen, showing several small, white nematodes emerging from the tissue. A pair of forceps is grasping the tissue, which is surrounded by blood, indicating a potential parasitic infection.

  • Hookworms are present within the gut lumen. The adult worm lives and mates within the host and ultimately, the female worm produces 600-6000 eggs per day. (Ballweber LR: Zoonotic Helminths. Western Veterinary Conference 2004.)

A small, translucent nematode is displayed on a dark surface, showcasing its elongated, slender body. The specimen is positioned to highlight its curvature and subtle texture, relevant for veterinary parasitology studies.

  • An adult hookworm photographed after extrication from the small intestine of a puppy during necropsy.