Verminous Arteritis (S. vulgaris)

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Key Points

Verminous arteritis is a cause of severe colic that occurs when Strongylus vulgaris larvae migrate through the cranial mesenteric artery
Larval migration causes arteritis, thrombosis and embolisation, leading to intestinal ischaemia and infarction
Clinical signs range from acute, severe colic with rapid deterioration to chronic, intermittent colic
There is no single test to definitively diagnose S. vulgaris as the cause of acute clinical disease as this occurs during the prepatent period
Anthelmintic therapy prevents further damage but won’t reverse existing injury
Prevention relies on strategic anthelmintic use alongside surveillance and good pasture management

Differential Diagnoses

Strangulating lesions (lipoma, volvulus)
Nephrosplenic entrapment
Gastrointestinal obstruction

Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →