Heartworm
- Pronunciation
- /HEART-worm/
- Category
- Disease
- Singular
- Heartworm
- Plural
- Heartworms
Definition
A parasitic disease caused by adult heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis) that reside in the heart and major blood vessels of dogs, cats, and other animals.
Etymology
Example
The dog's heartworm infection was diagnosed after experiencing coughing and difficulty breathing.
Related Terms
- Dirofilaria immitis
- Filariasis
- Mosquito vector
Usage Notes
Heartworm disease is a serious, potentially fatal disease that requires treatment with antiparasitic medications.