Prepatellaarisella

Prepatellaarisella is a genus of small, free-living nematodes belonging to the family Rhabditidae. These nematodes are characterized by their slender, cylindrical bodies and a distinctive prepatellar position, which refers to their location on the anterior surface of the patella (kneecap) in their host, the domestic cat (Felis catus). Prepatellaarisella nematodes are parasitic and cause a condition known as prepatellar nematodiasis in cats.

The life cycle of Prepatellaarisella involves both sexual and asexual reproduction. The adult worms reproduce sexually, producing eggs that are shed in the environment. These eggs hatch into infective larvae, which can penetrate the skin of a cat and migrate to the prepatellar region. Once in the prepatellar bursa, the larvae undergo asexual reproduction, producing numerous daughter worms that can cause significant damage to the joint.

Prepatellar nematodiasis is a common parasitic infection in cats, particularly in areas where the nematodes are prevalent. Symptoms may include lameness, swelling, and pain in the affected leg. Diagnosis is typically made through physical examination and sometimes confirmed by imaging studies. Treatment usually involves the administration of anthelmintic drugs to eliminate the worms, followed by surgical removal of the nematodes from the prepatellar bursa.

Prevention of prepatellar nematodiasis involves regular deworming of cats, maintaining a clean environment, and avoiding contact with infected soil. The genus Prepatellaarisella is of particular interest to veterinarians and parasitologists due to its unique life cycle and the significant impact it can have on the health of domestic cats.