Verminous aneurysm

Verminous aneurysm is an aneurysm of equines caused by the nematode named, Strongylus vulgaris,

Usally in the anterior mesenteric artery. Called also verminous mesenteric arteritis.

The clinical manifestations, diagnosis and differential diagnosis of "verminous aneurysm" formation at the root of the cranial mesenteric artery and coeliac artery resulting from Strongylus vulgaris larvae migration are described.

An aneurysm is a vascular dilation caused by weakening of the tunica media of blood vessels. The weakness might be primary or caused by degenerative or inflammatory changes progressing from an intimal lesion. False aneurysms (pseudoaneurysms) are caused by damage to all three layers of the arterial wall and result in extravascular accumulation of blood. Disruption of the endothelium associated with a true aneurysm can cause formation of a thrombus with subsequent embolization; thus, aneurysms, thrombi, and emboli may be recognized simultaneously. Aneurysms are rare in domestic animal species, although they have been reported in dogs, cats, horses, primates, and turkeys.

Aneurysm of the aortic root has been reported in horses, commonly noted at the right aortic sinus with or without concurrent endocarditis. Similar to those in people, aneurysms of the sinuses of Valsalva in horses can be congenital or acquired. Rupture of an aortic aneurysm typically leads to sudden death, a scenario most commonly seen in breeding stallions during live cover.