The emerging role of Wolbachia species in heartworm disease.

Heartworm disease was first recognized in dogs more than 100 years ago and is still prevalent among dogs and found in cats worldwide. The complications of heartworm disease can be devastating, and treatment carries risks. Wolbachia spp are gram-negative bacteria that infect filarial nematodes, including Dirofilaria immitis, and elicit an inflammatory response in cats and dogs. Antimicrobial therapy directed against these bacteria has resulted in decreased microfilarial loads, inhibition of the development of larval worms, female worm infertility, and reduced numbers of Wolbachia organisms. Antimicrobial therapy against Wolbachia spp may be useful in treating heartworm disease in cats and dogs, but further research is needed.