Morphological Characteristics of Toxocara spp. Adults Determined by Electron Microscopy

Abstract

Ascarids are commonly diagnosed in dogs and cats. Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati eggs are similar, and the difference between the two species is based on the morphological characteristics of adult roundworms. Specific morphological components can be revealed by light microscopy, but a detailed description of the structural characteristics can be provided by electron microscopy. The body of adult roundworms dehydrates highly quickly, thus it is quite difficult to obtain clear images. The aim of this study was to provide morphological details specific to the Toxocara genus to complete the knowledge about the morphology of roundworms. The morphology of these nematodes can be thoroughly explained by certain phenomena related to their biological cycle and the preference for localization in various organs of the parasitic host.

Keywords: SEM, Ascarids, Carnivores