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Meningeal worm is caused by the roundworm (nematode) Parelaphostrongylus tenius. White-tailed deer are the natural hosts for the meningeal worm. The intermediate host of meningeal worm is one of several species of snail or slug. Animals become infected when they ingest infected snails or slugs, likely by accident.
White-tailed deer typically harbor meningeal worm without any signs of disease. In most other cervids, including elk, infection can result in neurological problems and fatal neurologic disease.
Symptoms include:
Lesions
The roundworm infects the area in or around the brain and spinal cord. Microscopic examination can find “tracks” of the worm moving through these areas. Occasionally, a thin, hair-like worm can be found in the area surrounding the brain.
(Note the meningeal worm in the meninges inside the skull)
Photo courtesy of Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Diagnosis is made by finding “tracks” the worm has left through the spinal cord or brain, usually only visible under a microscope. Additionally, the thin, hair-like worm can be found in the meninges between the brain and skull.
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