Crenidium

Crenidium is a genus of parasitic nematodes belonging to the family Crenosomatidae. These nematodes are primarily known to infect the respiratory tracts of various mammals, particularly canids such as foxes and wolves.

The life cycle of Crenidium typically involves an indirect route, utilizing mollusks (snails or slugs) as intermediate hosts. Canids become infected by ingesting these infected mollusks. Once ingested, the larvae migrate to the respiratory system, specifically the bronchi and trachea, where they mature into adult worms.

Infected animals may exhibit symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, dyspnea (difficulty breathing), and nasal discharge. Diagnosis is often based on detecting the presence of larvae in fecal samples or through bronchoscopy. Treatment usually involves the administration of anthelmintic medications effective against nematodes.

The geographic distribution of Crenidium varies depending on the species and the prevalence of suitable intermediate hosts and definitive hosts.