Leptospira spp. of the urinary tract of female carrier goats in semi-arid conditions

Background: Leptospirosis is an important infectious disease in goat farming, with a worldwide distribution. It is usually transmitted by rodents and the genital route, may cause reproductive losses, negatively impacting goat farming. The diagnosis lies on serological, molecular and isolation techniques. Considering the importance of this disease for small ruminants, this work aimed to evaluate the serological, molecular findings and isolation of pathogenic leptospires in the urinary tract (kidney and bladder tissues) of goats. Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty-four adult goats were used for slaughter. Renal samples (n = 34), bladder (n = 34), were collected for isolation of the agent and molecular detection of Leptospira sp. and blood samples (n = 34) for serological testing. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used as a molecular test and the microscopic serum agglutination test (MAT) was used as a serological test. Samples with DNA amplification were subjected to genetic sequencing. The presence of Leptospira DNA was found in the tissues of 8 (23.4%) goats, and of these, only 2 were positive in PCR and MAT. There was a slight agreement between the PCR and MAT techniques (k = 0.150; P = 0.436). In 6 (17.6%) samples of renal tissue and 2 (5.8%) bladder samples, Leptospira DNA was detected. The genes in a kidney tissue sample were sequenced and demonstrated 99% similarity to Leptospira interrogans. Anti-Leptospira sp. were detected in 6 (17.6%) of the animals tested. Discussion: Serology identified 3 predominant serogroups: Icterohaemorrhagiae, Tarassovi and Autumnalis, serogroups that are related to the presence of rodents that coexist in rural environments. Autumnalis has been reported in small ruminants, raising the hypothesis that goats are adapted, becoming chronic carriers and possible maintenance hosts. The frequency obtained (17.6%) may be the result of the mixed breed pattern and rustic characteristics inherent to the goat species. Given the characteristics of the semi-arid region, such as low rainfall and high solar incidence, it is essential to use an adapted methodology, with a lower cut-off point (1:50), as the serological titer is an established relationship between the animal species, the level of exposure throughout its evolution and the region studied. Molecular findings and bacterial isolation reveal the agent's ability to colonize the urinary tract of goats. These data show the importance that urine has in the epidemiological chain, being able to transmit the agent through direct contact with this product or through contamination of soil and water. There was no statistical agreement between the diagnostic techniques used in this study, in this case, an association between PCR and MAT is recommended to obtain data with high sensitivity and specificity. A bladder sample was sequenced and showed 99% similarity to Leptospira interrogans. In the semiarid region, the most common form of leptospirosis spread is through the sale of animals in business fairs for breeding, rearing or slaughter, as well as sharing the same property with several breeders. The introduction of chronic and asymptomatic carriers on the properties represents a serious risk for the spread of the disease. The results show the presence of Leptospira spp. in semi-arid goat herds, having as risk factors the presence of rodents and intercropping. The association of MAT and PCR is necessary for a better diagnosis of the disease.

Seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. in horses from Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil / Soroprevalência de Leptospira spp. em equinos do Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with the presence of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies in horses reared in the Eastern and Western Potiguar mesoregion, State of Rio Grande do Norte, northeastern Brazil. Seven hundred and eighty-five animals (785) were used from 90 properties from 2018 to 2019. The serological diagnosis was performed by the microscopic agglutination technique (MAT), using a collection of live antigens composed of twenty serovars belonging to sixteen serogroups. Variable data associated with risk factors were obtained from questionnaires carried out to herd owners and statistically analyzed. The absolute and relative frequencies were determined by descriptive analysis and risk factors by univariate analysis of the variables using the Pearson's chi-square test and Fisher's exact test, when necessary, and then assessed by Poison regression. The positivity frequency among animals was 97.2% (763), and from all properties, there was at least one seropositive animal. The main reactive serogroup was Icterohaemorrhagiae (72.88%), followed by reactive animals to Australis (14,94%), Sejroe (4.43%), Shermani (2.77%), Autumnalis and Pomona (1.29%). It was observed occurrences lower than 1% to serogroups Canicola, Ballum, Grippotyphosa and Hebdomadis, with titles ≤400 in 78,97% of cases. The significant occurrence of seropositive horses and the serogroup Icterohaemorrhagiae predominance highlights the importance of vaccination and hygiene in Potiguares herds facilities to prevent leptospirosis cases and the consequent elimination of the agent in the environment.

Este estudo objetivou determinar a prevalência e os fatores de risco associados à presença de anticorpos anti-Leptospira spp. em equinos criados na mesorregião Leste e Oeste Potiguar, estado do Rio Grande do Norte, Nordeste do Brasil. Foram utilizados 785 animais oriundos de noventa propriedades durante o período de 2018 e 2019. O diagnóstico sorológico foi realizado pela técnica de soroaglutinação microscópica (MAT) utilizando coleção de antígenos vivos composta por vinte sorovares, pertencentes a dezesseis sorogrupos. Os dados das variáveis associadas aos fatores de risco que podem predispor a presença de equinos soropositivos, foram obtidos a partir de questionários aplicados aos proprietários dos rebanhos e analisados estatisticamente. As frequências absolutas e relativas foram determinadas por análise descritiva e os fatores de risco por análise univariada das variáveis de interesse pelo Teste de Qui-quadrado de Pearson e Exato de Fisher, quando necessário, e em seguida submetidos à análise de regressão de Poison. A frequência de equinos soropositivos foi de 97,2% (763), sendo que em todas as propriedades houve pelo menos um animal com presença de anticorpos. O sorogrupo predominante foi o Icterohaemorrhagiae (72,88%), seguido do Australis (14,94%), Sejroe (4,43%), Shermani (2,77%), Autumnalis e Pomona (1,29%). Ocorrências menores que 1% foram observadas para os sorogrupos Canicola, Ballum, Grippotyphosa e Hebdomadis, com títulos ≤400 em 78,97% dos casos. Devido à alta ocorrência de equinos soropositivos e a predominância do sorogrupo Icterohaemorrhagiae, ressalta-se a importância da vacinação e da higiene das instalações nos rebanhos Potiguares na prevenção de casos de leptospirose e a consequente eliminação do agente no ambiente.

Molecular and serological diagnosis for Leptospira spp. in biological samples of cattle collected during the slaughter line / Diagnóstico molecular e sorológico para Leptospira spp. em amostras biológicas de bovinos coletadas durante a linha de abate / Diagnóstico molecular y serológico para Leptospira spp. en muestras biológicas de bovinos recogidas durante la línea de sacrificio

A leptospirose é considerada uma zoonose bacteriana de importância para a saúde pública. É comum em áreas tropicais, especialmente em países em desenvolvimento com escassos recursos de saúde e saneamento. Este estudo avaliou a presença de Leptospira spp. em bovinos abatidos em frigorífico da região Centro-Oeste de São Paulo, Brasil, e identificou animais positivos tanto por sorologia quanto em análise molecular. Amostras biológicas de sangue, fígado e rins de 150 bovinos foram investigadas pela técnica de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM) e Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase convencional (cPCR). Os resultados sorológicos mostraram que dos 150 animais, 71 (47,3%) foram reagentes. Os resultados moleculares mostraram a presença de Leptospira spp. nos rins de 21 animais (14%), no fígado de 5 animais (3,3%), no fígado e rins em 2 animais (1,3%) e no sangue em 1 animal (0,7%). Esses resultados indicam um alerta sobre a saúde dos bovinos de corte devido à possibilidade desses animais serem fonte de infecção e a importância da característica ocupacional desta doença. Verificou-se também a importância de complementar as técnicas sorológicas e moleculares.

Leptospirosis is considered a bacterial zoonosis of public health importance. It is common in tropical areas, especially in developing countries with scarce health and sanitation resources. This study evaluated the presence of Leptospira spp. in slaughtered bovine in a slaughterhouse in the Midwest region of São Paulo, Brazil, as well as identified positive animals both in serology and by molecular analysis. Biological samples of blood, liver and kidneys from 150 cattle were investigated by the technique of Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT) and conventional Polymerase Chain Reaction (cPCR). The serological results showed that of the 150 animals, 71 (47.3%) were reactive. The molecular results showed the presence of Leptospira spp. in kidneys of 21 (14%) animals, in liver of five (3.3%) animals, in liver and kidneys in two animals (1.3%) and in blood, in one (0.7%) animal. These results indicate a warning about the health of beef cattle due to the possibility of these animals being the source of infection and the importance of the occupational characteristic of this disease. It was also verified the importance of complementing serological and molecular techniques.

La leptospirosis es considerada una zoonosis bacteriana de importancia en salud pública. Es común en áreas tropicales, especialmente en países en desarrollo con escasos recursos de salud y saneamiento. Este estudio evaluó la presencia de Leptospira spp. en bovinos sacrificados en un matadero de región Centro-Oeste de São Paulo, Brasil, así como animales positivos identificados tanto en serología como por análisis molecular. Se investigaron muestras biológicas de sangre, hígado y riñones de 150 bovinos mediante la técnica de Aglutinación Microscópica (MAT) y Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa convencional (cPCR). Los resultados serológicos mostraron que de los 150 animales, 71 (47,3%) fueron reactivos. Los resultados moleculares mostraron la presencia de Leptospira spp. en riñones de 21 (14%) animales, en hígado de cinco (3,3%) animales, en hígado y riñones en dos animales (1,3%) y en sangre, en un (0,7%) animal. Estos resultados indican una alerta sobre la salud de los bovinos de carne debido a la posibilidad de que estos animales sean fuente de infección y la importancia de la característica ocupacional de esta enfermedad. También se verificó la importancia de complementar las técnicas serológicas y moleculares.

Estudo retrospectivo da leptospirose canina em hospital veterinário escola no município de Londrina, PR / Retrospective study of canine leptospirosis in a veterinary school hospital in the municipality of Londrina, PR

O objetivo do trabalho foi relatar a ocorrência de casos de cães com Leptospira spp. no Hospital Veterinário de Londrina. Foram avaliados 5.454 prontuários, durante os meses de janeiro a dezembro de 2016, e selecionados os que apresentaram solicitação de exame para Lepstopira por meio da técnica de campo escuro (CE). Nos positivos pela técnica CE dados sobre o sexo, sinais clínicos, endereço, data do atendimento e resultado na SAM foram coletados. A análise dos dados foi realizada pelo programa EpiInfo (7.2.3.1), dos 5.454 prontuários nos quais foi solicitado exame CE em 7,06% (385/5.454), e nesses, 13,76% (53/385) foi identificada a presença da espiroqueta. Dos animais positivos na técnica CE, 20,75% (11/53) foram reagentes na SAM. O sorovar Canicola foi o mais frequente em 90,91% (10/11) dos animais, apresentando títulos variados de 100 a 12.800. Para o sorovar Pomona 9,09% (1/11) dos animais apresentaram títulação de 100. Os sinais clínicos mais observados foram apatia em 58,49% (31/53), azotemia em 49,06% (26/53) e êmese em 49,06% (26/53) dos casos. Quanto ao sexo, os machos constituíram 71,70% dos casos e as fêmeas 28,30% (p=0,0015). Os resultados demonstraram a presença de Leptospira spp. entre os animais atendidos no hospital veterinário de Universidade Estadual de Londrina e reforçam a importância do sorovar Canicola entre os cães, visto que esse foi o mais frequente entre os sorovares e que apresentou os maiores títulos.(AU)

The purpose of this work is to report the occurrence of cases of dogs with Leptospira spp. at the Veterinary Hospital of Londrina. A total of 5,454 medical records were evaluated from January to December 2016, and data obtained from the examination for Lepstopira using the dark field technique (DF) were selected. In cases which were positive by the DF technique, data on gender, clinical signs, address, care data, and SAM results were collected. Data analysis was performed using the EpiInfo program (7.2.3.1). From the total 5,454 medical records in which DF examination was requested, in 7.06% (385/5.454), and from those, 13.76% (53/385) were positive for Leptospira. From the animals positive in the DF technique, 20.75% (11/53) were reactive in SAM. The Canicola serovar was the most prevalent, being present in 90.91% (10/11) of the animals, with titers ranging from 100 to 12,800. For the Pomona serovar, 9.09% (1/11) of the animals presented a title of 100. The most frequent clinical signs observed were apathy, in 58.49% (31/53); azotemia in 49.06% (26/53); and emesis in 49.06% (26/53) of the cases. As for gender, male animals constituted 71.70% of the cases and female 28.30% (p = 0.0015). The results demonstrated the presence of Leptospira spp. among animals treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the State University of Londrina which reinforces the importance of the Canicola serovar among dogs, since it was the serovar with the highest prevalence and highest titer found.(AU)

Hematúria macroscópica em equinos associada à infecção por Leptospira interrogans / Macroscopic haematuria in horses associated with Leptospira interrogans infection

Hematúria é uma grave manifestação clínica de doença do sistema urinário, ocorrendo sob as formas micro ou macroscópica. Neste artigo relatam-se dois casos de hematúria macroscópica associada à infecção por Leptospira interrogans sorogrupo Canicola. O exame clínico inicial revelou hematúria macroscópica, taquicardia, taquipneia, febre, elevação do tempo de perfusão capilar, hipomotilidade intestinal, além de icterícia da mucosa oral. Leucocitose, proteinúria, glicosúria, piúria e azotemia foram achados comuns aos dois casos. Teste de Soroaglutinação Microscópica foi realizado para titulação de anticorpos contra Leptospira interrogans. Tratamento incluiu medidas terapêuticas de suporte (fluidoterapia), controle da hematúria e antibioticoterapia. Sete dias após manifestação dos sinais clínicos iniciais, ambos animais receberam alta hospitalar após remissão dos sinais clínicos.(AU)

Haematuria is a serious clinical manifestation of urinary system disease, occurring in micro or macroscopic forms. In this article two cases of macroscopic haematuria associated with Leptospira interrogans serogroup Canicolainfection are related. The initial clinical examination revealed macroscopic haematuria, tachycardia, tachypnea, fever, increased capillary perfusion time, intestinal hypomotility, in addition to jaundice of the oral mucosa. Leukocytosis, proteinuria, glycosuria, pyuria and azotemia were common findings in both cases. Microscopic serum agglutination test was performed for titration of antibodies against Leptospira interrogans. Treatment included supportive therapeutic measures (fluid therapy), hematuria control and antibiotic therapy. Seven days after the manifestation of the initial clinical signs, both animals were discharged from the hospital without complications.(AU)

Hematúria macroscópica em equinos associada à infecção por Leptospira interrogans / Macroscopic haematuria in horses associated with Leptospira interrogans infection

Hematúria é uma grave manifestação clínica de doença do sistema urinário, ocorrendo sob as formas micro ou macroscópica. Neste artigo relatam-se dois casos de hematúria macroscópica associada à infecção por Leptospira interrogans sorogrupo Canicola. O exame clínico inicial revelou hematúria macroscópica, taquicardia, taquipneia, febre, elevação do tempo de perfusão capilar, hipomotilidade intestinal, além de icterícia da mucosa oral. Leucocitose, proteinúria, glicosúria, piúria e azotemia foram achados comuns aos dois casos. Teste de Soroaglutinação Microscópica foi realizado para titulação de anticorpos contra Leptospira interrogans. Tratamento incluiu medidas terapêuticas de suporte (fluidoterapia), controle da hematúria e antibioticoterapia. Sete dias após manifestação dos sinais clínicos iniciais, ambos animais receberam alta hospitalar após remissão dos sinais clínicos.

Haematuria is a serious clinical manifestation of urinary system disease, occurring in micro or macroscopic forms. In this article two cases of macroscopic haematuria associated with Leptospira interrogans serogroup Canicolainfection are related. The initial clinical examination revealed macroscopic haematuria, tachycardia, tachypnea, fever, increased capillary perfusion time, intestinal hypomotility, in addition to jaundice of the oral mucosa. Leukocytosis, proteinuria, glycosuria, pyuria and azotemia were common findings in both cases. Microscopic serum agglutination test was performed for titration of antibodies against Leptospira interrogans. Treatment included supportive therapeutic measures (fluid therapy), hematuria control and antibiotic therapy. Seven days after the manifestation of the initial clinical signs, both animals were discharged from the hospital without complications.

Occurrence of Leptospira spp. and factors associated with the infection in horses from a military contingent in the Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil / Ocorrência de Leptospira spp. e fatores associados à infecção em equinos de contingente militar no estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

The seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. and infection risk factors were investigated in horses from a military contingent in the Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. A total of 446 horses were evaluated and categorized into 309 mares, 11 stallions, and 126 horses with an average age of three years. To determine seroprevalence, serum samples from all horses were submitted to the microscopic agglutination test against 12 serovars belonging to nine serogroups, usually circulating in equine populations. To investigate the possible risk factors of infection by Leptospira spp., questionnaires were applied in that military unit. The seroprevalence in the horses with an average age of 3 years, mares, and stallions were 57.94% (73/126), 54.05% (165/309), and 45.45% (5/11), respectively. The main risk factors identified were contact with different water sources, the presence of rodents, and contact with wild and domestic animals. The high seroprevalence of anti­Leptospira spp. antibodies may be associated with the presence of these risk factors. Therefore, the exposure of horses to possible reservoirs of Leptospira spp. should be minimized. Also, the immunoprophylaxis protocol should be reviewed and a shorter interval between vaccinations adopted to control leptospirosis in this herd.(AU)

A soroprevalência de Leptospira spp. e os fatores de risco para infecção foram investigados em cavalos de um contingente militar no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Um total de 446 cavalos foram avaliados e categorizados em 309 éguas, 11 garanhões e 126 cavalos com idade média de três anos. Para determinação da soroprevalência, amostras de soro de todos os equinos foram submetidas ao teste de aglutinação microscópica contra 12 sorovares pertencentes a nove sorogrupos, normalmente circulantes em populações equinas. Para investigar os possíveis fatores de risco da infecção por Leptospira spp., foi aplicado um questionário naquela unidade militar. A soroprevalência nos cavalos com idade média de três anos, éguas e garanhões foi de 57,94% (73/126), 54,05% (165/309) e 45,45% (5/11), respectivamente. Os principais fatores de risco identificados foram o contato com diferentes fontes de água, a presença de roedores e o contato com animais silvestres e domésticos. A alta soroprevalência de anticorpos anti­Leptospira spp. pode estar associada à presença desses fatores de risco. Portanto, a exposição destes equinos aos possíveis reservatórios de Leptospira spp. deve ser minimizada. Além disso, o protocolo de imunoprofilaxia deve ser revisto e, possivelmente, um menor intervalo entre as vacinas deve ser adotado para o controle da leptospirose neste plantel.(AU)

Occurrence of Leptospira spp. and factors associated with the infection in horses from a military contingent in the Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil / Ocorrência de Leptospira spp. e fatores associados à infecção em equinos de contingente militar no estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

The seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. and infection risk factors were investigated in horses from a military contingent in the Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. A total of 446 horses were evaluated and categorized into 309 mares, 11 stallions, and 126 horses with an average age of three years. To determine seroprevalence, serum samples from all horses were submitted to the microscopic agglutination test against 12 serovars belonging to nine serogroups, usually circulating in equine populations. To investigate the possible risk factors of infection by Leptospira spp., questionnaires were applied in that military unit. The seroprevalence in the horses with an average age of 3 years, mares, and stallions were 57.94% (73/126), 54.05% (165/309), and 45.45% (5/11), respectively. The main risk factors identified were contact with different water sources, the presence of rodents, and contact with wild and domestic animals. The high seroprevalence of anti­Leptospira spp. antibodies may be associated with the presence of these risk factors. Therefore, the exposure of horses to possible reservoirs of Leptospira spp. should be minimized. Also, the immunoprophylaxis protocol should be reviewed and a shorter interval between vaccinations adopted to control leptospirosis in this herd.(AU)

A soroprevalência de Leptospira spp. e os fatores de risco para infecção foram investigados em cavalos de um contingente militar no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Um total de 446 cavalos foram avaliados e categorizados em 309 éguas, 11 garanhões e 126 cavalos com idade média de três anos. Para determinação da soroprevalência, amostras de soro de todos os equinos foram submetidas ao teste de aglutinação microscópica contra 12 sorovares pertencentes a nove sorogrupos, normalmente circulantes em populações equinas. Para investigar os possíveis fatores de risco da infecção por Leptospira spp., foi aplicado um questionário naquela unidade militar. A soroprevalência nos cavalos com idade média de três anos, éguas e garanhões foi de 57,94% (73/126), 54,05% (165/309) e 45,45% (5/11), respectivamente. Os principais fatores de risco identificados foram o contato com diferentes fontes de água, a presença de roedores e o contato com animais silvestres e domésticos. A alta soroprevalência de anticorpos anti­Leptospira spp. pode estar associada à presença desses fatores de risco. Portanto, a exposição destes equinos aos possíveis reservatórios de Leptospira spp. deve ser minimizada. Além disso, o protocolo de imunoprofilaxia deve ser revisto e, possivelmente, um menor intervalo entre as vacinas deve ser adotado para o controle da leptospirose neste plantel.(AU)

Leptospirosis diagnosis among patients suspected of dengue fever in Brazil

The early symptoms of leptospirosis and dengue fever are difficult to distinguish and can cause diagnostic confusion. Due to the large dengue epidemics that has occurred in Brazil in recent years, it is possible that cases of leptospirosis were unreported. Therefore, we performed a retrospective study to detect leptospirosis in patients who were tested for dengue, but whose laboratory diagnoses were negative. Methods: Sera samples from 2,017 patients from 48 cities located in the central region of São Paulo state, Brazil, were studied. All samples were subjected to the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), 305 of which were taken from patients five days or less since the onset of symptoms, and were additionally subjected to real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: The overall prevalence of leptospirosis cases was 21 (1.04%), with 20 through MAT (18 for Icterohaemorrhagiae and two for the Cynopteri serogroup) and one through PCR (amplicon sequencing compatible with Leptospira interrogans). According to previously established criteria, eight cases of leptospirosis were classified as "confirmed" and 13 as "probable". The Brazilian notification system for health surveillance had no records for 16 patients positive for leptospirosis and, thus, they were considered unreported cases. Statistical analyses revealed that the prevalence of leptospirosis was higher in men (1.56%) than in women (0.56%), and the mean age was higher in positive patients (43.7 years) than in negative ones (32.3 years). Conclusion: The results indicated that patients suspected of dengue fever had evidence of leptospirosis or Leptospira infection, and most of these cases were unreported in the Brazilian notification system. The high burden of dengue may contribute to the misdiagnosis of leptospirosis, and health professionals should increase their awareness of leptospirosis as an important differential diagnosis of patients with suspicion of dengue.(AU)

Leptospirosis diagnosis among patients suspected of dengue fever in Brazil

The early symptoms of leptospirosis and dengue fever are difficult to distinguish and can cause diagnostic confusion. Due to the large dengue epidemics that has occurred in Brazil in recent years, it is possible that cases of leptospirosis were unreported. Therefore, we performed a retrospective study to detect leptospirosis in patients who were tested for dengue, but whose laboratory diagnoses were negative. Methods: Sera samples from 2,017 patients from 48 cities located in the central region of São Paulo state, Brazil, were studied. All samples were subjected to the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), 305 of which were taken from patients five days or less since the onset of symptoms, and were additionally subjected to real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: The overall prevalence of leptospirosis cases was 21 (1.04%), with 20 through MAT (18 for Icterohaemorrhagiae and two for the Cynopteri serogroup) and one through PCR (amplicon sequencing compatible with Leptospira interrogans). According to previously established criteria, eight cases of leptospirosis were classified as "confirmed" and 13 as "probable". The Brazilian notification system for health surveillance had no records for 16 patients positive for leptospirosis and, thus, they were considered unreported cases. Statistical analyses revealed that the prevalence of leptospirosis was higher in men (1.56%) than in women (0.56%), and the mean age was higher in positive patients (43.7 years) than in negative ones (32.3 years). Conclusion: The results indicated that patients suspected of dengue fever had evidence of leptospirosis or Leptospira infection, and most of these cases were unreported in the Brazilian notification system. The high burden of dengue may contribute to the misdiagnosis of leptospirosis, and health professionals should increase their awareness of leptospirosis as an important differential diagnosis of patients with suspicion of dengue.(AU)

Serological survey of leptospirosis, brucellosis, and lentivirus in herds of small ruminants in Recôncavo Baiano, Bahia, Brazil / Inquérito sorológico de leptospirose, brucelose e lentiviroses em rebanhos de pequenos ruminantes no Recôncavo Baiano, Bahia, Brasil

A serological survey was carried out to assess the frequency of leptospirosis, small ruminants lentivirus (SRLV), and brucellosis in small ruminant herds in the Recôncavo Baiano, State of Bahia, Brazil, from February to December 2017. In four goat herds, 125 animals were tested for SRLV and leptospirosis, while in five sheep herds, 378 animals were tested for leptospirosis, brucellosis, and SRLV. Regarding leptospirosis, MAT detected 80% of goats and 15.34% of sheep seroreactive. Reactivity was most frequent to serogroups Autumnalis and Grippotyphosa in goats and sheep, respectively. Regarding SRLV, 8.8% of goats and 0.79% of sheep were reactive. Search for anti-B. ovis antibodies revealed 0.52% reactivity. In sheep, three animals showed simultaneous seroreactivity for SRLV and leptospirosis, while one animal had a serological response for brucellosis and leptospirosis. In goats, simultaneous seroreactivity for SRLV and leptospirosis was observed in only one animal. Leptospirosis was the most frequent of the three infectious diseases in investigated herds.(AU)

Foi realizado um inquérito sorológico para avaliar a frequência de ocorrência de leptospirose, lentiviroses de pequenos ruminantes (LVPR) e brucelose em rebanhos de pequenos ruminantes no Recôncavo Baiano, estado da Bahia, Brasil, no período de fevereiro a dezembro de 2017. Em quatro rebanhos de caprinos, foram testados 125 animais para LVPR e leptospirose, enquanto em cinco rebanhos de ovinos, foram testados 378 animais para leptospirose, brucelose e LVPR. Em relação à leptospirose, 80% das cabras e 15,34% das ovelhas foram sororreativas. Os sorogrupos de Leptospira spp. predominantes foram Autumnalis e Grippotyphosa para caprinos e ovinos, respectivamente. Em relação as LVPR, 8,8% dos caprinos e 0,79% dos ovinos foram reativos. Adicionalmente, a pesquisa de anticorpos Anti-B. ovis revelou 0,52% de ovinos reativos. Em ovinos, três animais apresentaram sororreatividade simultânea para LVPR e leptospirose, enquanto um animal teve resposta sorológica para brucelose e leptospirose. Em caprinos, sororreatividade simultânea para LVPR e leptospirose foi observada em apenas um animal. A leptospirose foi a doença infecciosa mais frequente nos rebanhos investigados.(AU)

Serological survey of leptospirosis, brucellosis, and lentivirus in herds of small ruminants in Recôncavo Baiano, Bahia, Brazil / Inquérito sorológico de leptospirose, brucelose e lentiviroses em rebanhos de pequenos ruminantes no Recôncavo Baiano, Bahia, Brasil

A serological survey was carried out to assess the frequency of leptospirosis, small ruminants lentivirus (SRLV), and brucellosis in small ruminant herds in the Recôncavo Baiano, State of Bahia, Brazil, from February to December 2017. In four goat herds, 125 animals were tested for SRLV and leptospirosis, while in five sheep herds, 378 animals were tested for leptospirosis, brucellosis, and SRLV. Regarding leptospirosis, MAT detected 80% of goats and 15.34% of sheep seroreactive. Reactivity was most frequent to serogroups Autumnalis and Grippotyphosa in goats and sheep, respectively. Regarding SRLV, 8.8% of goats and 0.79% of sheep were reactive. Search for anti-B. ovis antibodies revealed 0.52% reactivity. In sheep, three animals showed simultaneous seroreactivity for SRLV and leptospirosis, while one animal had a serological response for brucellosis and leptospirosis. In goats, simultaneous seroreactivity for SRLV and leptospirosis was observed in only one animal. Leptospirosis was the most frequent of the three infectious diseases in investigated herds.(AU)

Foi realizado um inquérito sorológico para avaliar a frequência de ocorrência de leptospirose, lentiviroses de pequenos ruminantes (LVPR) e brucelose em rebanhos de pequenos ruminantes no Recôncavo Baiano, estado da Bahia, Brasil, no período de fevereiro a dezembro de 2017. Em quatro rebanhos de caprinos, foram testados 125 animais para LVPR e leptospirose, enquanto em cinco rebanhos de ovinos, foram testados 378 animais para leptospirose, brucelose e LVPR. Em relação à leptospirose, 80% das cabras e 15,34% das ovelhas foram sororreativas. Os sorogrupos de Leptospira spp. predominantes foram Autumnalis e Grippotyphosa para caprinos e ovinos, respectivamente. Em relação as LVPR, 8,8% dos caprinos e 0,79% dos ovinos foram reativos. Adicionalmente, a pesquisa de anticorpos Anti-B. ovis revelou 0,52% de ovinos reativos. Em ovinos, três animais apresentaram sororreatividade simultânea para LVPR e leptospirose, enquanto um animal teve resposta sorológica para brucelose e leptospirose. Em caprinos, sororreatividade simultânea para LVPR e leptospirose foi observada em apenas um animal. A leptospirose foi a doença infecciosa mais frequente nos rebanhos investigados.(AU)

Antibody prevalence of Leptospira spp. and Brucella abortus in domestic cats from Araguaína, Tocantins, North Region of Brazil / Prevalência de anticorpos para Leptospira spp. e Brucella Abortus em gatos domésticos de Araguaína, Tocantins, Região Norte do Brasil

Leptospira spp. and Brucella abortus are bacterial pathogens that can infect humans and animals. The present study aimed to detect anti-Leptospira and anti-B. abortus antibodies and verified the presence of factors associated with seropositivity in cats. One hundred and eighty serum samples were collected from domestic cats (Felis silvestris catus) from the urban area of the municipality of Araguaína-Tocantins by phlebocentesis of the cephalic and jugular veins. The samples were subjected to detection of anti-Leptospira and anti-B.abortus antibodies, respectively, by microscopic seroagglutination and buffered acidified antigen testing, followed by confirmation by the 2-mercaptoethanol test and slow seroagglutination in tubes. Data from the epidemiological questionnaire (the age, sex, origin, breed, and presence of clinical signs) were analyzed using Epi Info® software with seropositivity data found to search for associated factors using the chi-square test. In the present study, the prevalence of Leptospira spp. was 5.56% (10/180). However, no sample was reactive to B. abortus. None of the studied variables were associated with seropositivity for the pathogens evaluated. Therefore, there is contact between Leptospira spp. and the feline population of the municipality, indicating the possibility of the circulation of pathogenic serovars and that the presence of anti-Leptospira antibodies does not depend on the variables analyzed.(AU)

Leptospira spp. e Brucella abortus são patógenos bacterianos que podem infectar humanos e animais. O presente estudo teve como objetivo detectar anticorpos anti-Leptospira e anti-B.abortus e verificar a presença de fatores associados com a soropositividade em gatos. Foram coletadas 180 amostras de soro de gatos domésticos (Felis silvestris catus) da zona urbana do município de Araguaína-Tocantins por flebocentese das veias cefálica e jugular. As amostras foram submetidas à detecção de anticorpos anti-Leptospira e anti-B. abortus, respectivamente, por soroaglutinação microscópica e teste do antígeno acidificado tamponado, seguido de confirmação pelo teste de 2-mercaptoetanol e soroaglutinação lenta em tubos. Os dados do questionário epidemiológico (idade, sexo, procedência, raça e presença de sinais clínicos) foram analisados no software Epi Info® com os dados de soropositividade encontrados para pesquisa de fatores associados pelo teste do qui-quadrado. No presente estudo, a prevalência de Leptospira spp. foi de 5,56% (10/180). No entanto, nenhuma amostra foi reativa para B. abortus. Nenhuma das variáveis estudadas foi associada com a soropositividade para os patógenos avaliados. Portanto, há contato entre Leptospiraspp. e a população felina do município, indicando a possibilidade de circulação de sorovares patogênicos e que a presença de anticorpos anti-Leptospira independe das variáveis analisadas.(AU)

Hematúria macroscópica em equinos associada à infecção por Leptospira interrogans / Macroscopic haematuria in horses associated with Leptospira interrogans infection

Hematúria é uma grave manifestação clínica de doença do sistema urinário, ocorrendo sob as formas micro ou macroscópica. Neste artigo relatam-se dois casos de hematúria macroscópica associada à infecção por Leptospira interrogans sorogrupo Canicola. O exame clínico inicial revelou hematúria macroscópica, taquicardia, taquipneia, febre, elevação do tempo de perfusão capilar, hipomotilidade intestinal, além de icterícia da mucosa oral. Leucocitose, proteinúria, glicosúria, piúria e azotemia foram achados comuns aos dois casos. Teste de Soroaglutinação Microscópica foi realizado para titulação de anticorpos contra Leptospira interrogans. Tratamento incluiu medidas terapêuticas de suporte (fluidoterapia), controle da hematúria e antibioticoterapia. Sete dias após manifestação dos sinais clínicos iniciais, ambos animais receberam alta hospitalar após remissão dos sinais clínicos.

Haematuria is a serious clinical manifestation of urinary system disease, occurring in micro or macroscopic forms. In this article two cases of macroscopic haematuria associated with Leptospira interrogans serogroup Canicolainfection are related. The initial clinical examination revealed macroscopic haematuria, tachycardia, tachypnea, fever, increased capillary perfusion time, intestinal hypomotility, in addition to jaundice of the oral mucosa. Leukocytosis, proteinuria, glycosuria, pyuria and azotemia were common findings in both cases. Microscopic serum agglutination test was performed for titration of antibodies against Leptospira interrogans. Treatment included supportive therapeutic measures (fluid therapy), hematuria control and antibiotic therapy. Seven days after the manifestation of the initial clinical signs, both animals were discharged from the hospital without complications.

Epidemiological characteristics of Leptospira spp. infection in bovine herds in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil / Caracterização soroepidemiológica da infecção por Leptospira spp. em rebanhos bovinos de corte do estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil

The epidemiological characteristics of bovine leptospirosis in animals and herds in Mato Grosso do Sul were investigated to determine parameters such as disease frequency and the serovars reactant in beef cattle herds. A total of 4,629 beef cattle herds were examined against 33 Leptospira spp. serovars. The serum samples were submitted to the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) for the serological diagnosis of leptospirosis. The MAT results showed that 3,814 (82.39%) of the 4,629 animals evaluated were seropositive for the bacterium, with serological reactions mainly to serogroup Sejroe, serovar Wolffi (36.49%). The observed high frequency of reactive animals demonstrates the relevance of the infection. Therefore, general and specific measures should be implemented to contain and/or prevent infection of the animals in the studied region.(AU)

Foi realizado um inquérito epidemiológico da leptospirose em bovinos de rebanhos de corte do estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, de modo a determinar a frequência e as sorovariedades reagentes. Para isso, foram examinados 4.629 bovinos de corte, com uma coleção de 33 sorovariedades de Leptospira, por meio da prova de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (MAT). Dos 4.629 animais examinados, 3.814 (82,39%) foram reagentes com reações predominates para o sorogrupo Sejroe, sorovar Wolffi (36,49%). Assim, a alta frequência de animais reagentes encontrada justifica a implantação de medidas gerais e específicas para conter e/ou prevenir a infecção nos animais dessa região.(AU)

Epidemiological characteristics of Leptospira spp. infection in bovine herds in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil / Caracterização soroepidemiológica da infecção por Leptospira spp. em rebanhos bovinos de corte do estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil

The epidemiological characteristics of bovine leptospirosis in animals and herds in Mato Grosso do Sul were investigated to determine parameters such as disease frequency and the serovars reactant in beef cattle herds. A total of 4,629 beef cattle herds were examined against 33 Leptospira spp. serovars. The serum samples were submitted to the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) for the serological diagnosis of leptospirosis. The MAT results showed that 3,814 (82.39%) of the 4,629 animals evaluated were seropositive for the bacterium, with serological reactions mainly to serogroup Sejroe, serovar Wolffi (36.49%). The observed high frequency of reactive animals demonstrates the relevance of the infection. Therefore, general and specific measures should be implemented to contain and/or prevent infection of the animals in the studied region.(AU)

Foi realizado um inquérito epidemiológico da leptospirose em bovinos de rebanhos de corte do estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, de modo a determinar a frequência e as sorovariedades reagentes. Para isso, foram examinados 4.629 bovinos de corte, com uma coleção de 33 sorovariedades de Leptospira, por meio da prova de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (MAT). Dos 4.629 animais examinados, 3.814 (82,39%) foram reagentes com reações predominates para o sorogrupo Sejroe, sorovar Wolffi (36,49%). Assim, a alta frequência de animais reagentes encontrada justifica a implantação de medidas gerais e específicas para conter e/ou prevenir a infecção nos animais dessa região.(AU)

Leptospirose canina: revisão de literatura

Cães são importantes reservatórios para Leptospira spp, na transmissão humana e disseminação em ambientes urbanos. A infecção ocorre principalmente pelos sorovares Canicola e Icterohaemorrhaghiae, podendo ser infectados por outros sorovares incidentais. A manifestação pode ser desde uma forma assintomática a quadros clínicos graves, com síndromes ictérica, hemorrágica, urêmica e reprodutivas. Diversas técnicas estão disponíveis para o diagnostico, sendo realizado principalmente por meio da soroaglutinação microscópica (SAM), isolamento em cultura ou reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR). O tratamento com antibióticos são eficazes na fase leptospirêmica e leptospirúrica, e, consequentemente, na prevenção e controle da disseminação da bactéria no ambiente.(AU)

Dogs are important reservoirs for Leptospira spp, human transmission and dissemination in urban environments. The infection occurs mainly by serovars Canicola and Icterohaemorrhaghiae, and can be infected by other incident serovars. A manifestation can be made asymptomatically in severe clinical conditions, with icteric, hemorrhagic, uremic and reproductive syndromes. Several techniques available for diagnosis, being carried out mainly by means of microscopic soroagglutination (MAT), isolation in culture or polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Treatment with antibiotics is initiated in the leptospiremic and leptospirurgical phase and, consequently, in the prevention and control of the spread of the bacteria in the environment.(AU)

Leptospirose canina: revisão de literatura

Cães são importantes reservatórios para Leptospira spp, na transmissão humana e disseminação em ambientes urbanos. A infecção ocorre principalmente pelos sorovares Canicola e Icterohaemorrhaghiae, podendo ser infectados por outros sorovares incidentais. A manifestação pode ser desde uma forma assintomática a quadros clínicos graves, com síndromes ictérica, hemorrágica, urêmica e reprodutivas. Diversas técnicas estão disponíveis para o diagnostico, sendo realizado principalmente por meio da soroaglutinação microscópica (SAM), isolamento em cultura ou reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR). O tratamento com antibióticos são eficazes na fase leptospirêmica e leptospirúrica, e, consequentemente, na prevenção e controle da disseminação da bactéria no ambiente.

Dogs are important reservoirs for Leptospira spp, human transmission and dissemination in urban environments. The infection occurs mainly by serovars Canicola and Icterohaemorrhaghiae, and can be infected by other incident serovars. A manifestation can be made asymptomatically in severe clinical conditions, with icteric, hemorrhagic, uremic and reproductive syndromes. Several techniques available for diagnosis, being carried out mainly by means of microscopic soroagglutination (MAT), isolation in culture or polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Treatment with antibiotics is initiated in the leptospiremic and leptospirurgical phase and, consequently, in the prevention and control of the spread of the bacteria in the environment.

Risk factors related to seropositivity for Leptospira spp. in horses in the Serra Catarinense region / Fatores de risco relacionados a soropositividade para Leptospira spp. em equinos na região da Serra Catarinense

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Leptospira spp. The consequences of infection in horses are unclear, and the serogroups involved vary depending on the region. This study aimed to evaluate the seropositivity of unvaccinated horses in the Serra Catarinense region and the possible risk factors associated with the infection. We used 207 horses from 26 properties, with no clinical history of infection and unvaccinated for leptospirosis. We submitted serum samples to the microscopic agglutination serum (SAM) to obtain the main reference serogroups. We considered animals with titre 100 as infected. The results of the serology revealed seropositivity in 45.4% (94/207) of the animals studied. The most frequent antibodies reportedwere those against the serogroups Australis 16.9% (35/207), Ichterhaemorrhagiae 14.4% (30/207), and Grippotyphosa 5.31% (11/207). Among the primary risk factors associated with the infection we reported extensive rearing system (OR = 1.27; P 0.05) and the presence of other animal species such as cattle (OR = 3.85; P 0.01) and capybaras (OR = 2.07; P=0.06). The findings presented in this study showed that leptospirosis is endemic in horses in the Serra Catarinense region, and revealed the need for emergency surveillance and control measures specific to this important zoonosis.(AU)

A leptospirose é uma doença infecciosa zoonótica, causada pela bactéria Leptospira spp. Em equinos, as consequências da infecção não são claras e os sorogrupos envolvidos variam dependendo da região. Sendo assim, este trabalho objetivou avaliar a soropositividade de Leptospira spp. em equinos não vacinados na região serrana Catarinense e estimar os possíveis fatores de risco associados à infecção. Para tal, foram estudados 207 equinos, de 26 propriedades, sem histórico clínico da infecção e não vacinados para leptospirose. As amostras de soro foram submetidas ao ensaio de soro aglutinação microscópica (SAM) para os principais sorogrupos de referência. Animais com título 100 foram considerados reagentes. Os resultados da sorologia revelaram uma soropositividade de 45,4% (94/207) para os animais estudados. Com maior frequência foram observados anticorpos contra os sorogrupos Australis 16,9% (35/207), Icterohaemorrhagiae 14,4% (30/207), e Grippotyphosa 5,31% (11/207). Dentre os principais fatores de risco associados à infecção observados, foram o sistema de criação extensivo (OR=1,27; P 0,05) e a presença de outras espécies animais como bovinos (OR=3,85; P 0,01) e capivaras (OR=2,07; P=0,06). Os achados apresentados neste estudo mostraram que a leptospirose em equinos é endêmica na região da serra Catarinense, e revelam a necessidade de medidas emergenciais de vigilância e controle específicas para esta importante zoonose.(AU)

Molecular identification of Leptospira interrogans in naturally infected cows from a rural property in the border region: case report / Identificação molecular de Leptospira interrogans em vacas naturalmente infectadas de uma propriedade rural em região fronteiriça: relato de caso

The aim of this study was to investigate the antibodies and DNA of Leptospira spp. isolated from infected cattle in a small rural dairy farm in a border region between Brazil and Paraguay. Blood and urine samples were collected from 50 Holstein cows aged between 1 and 15 years. The diagnostic tests performed were microscopic serum agglutination for antibody detection and polymerase chain reaction for Leptospira spp. detection. Out of the samples analyzed, 48% were MAT positive with titers ranging from 100 to 400, and the most prevalent antibody was to the serovar Hardjo. One serum sample was amplified to 549 bp for the sec y gene, and sequencing identified it as L. interrogans. This is the first report from northwestern Paraná (PR) State of L. interrogans identification in naturally infected milk cattle. Thus, based on these results, to enhance production efficiency, new serological and molecular studies on dairy cattle from border regions are required to characterize the epidemiology of possible genotypes and their consequences in affected herds.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi pesquisar anticorpos e DNA de Leptospira spp. em uma propriedade rural leiteira de uma região fronteiriça entre Brasil e Paraguai. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue e urina de 50 animais da raça Holandesa com idade variando de um a quinze anos, de uma pequena propriedade rural de exploração leiteira em uma região de fronteira entre Brasil e Paraguai. Quanto aos diferentes diagnósticos foi utilizado a soroaglutinação microscópica para a detecção de anticorpos e também foi realizada a reação em cadeia pela polimerase para a detecção de DNA de Leptospira spp. Das amostras analisadas, 48,00% foram soro reagentes na SAM com títulos variando de 100 a 400 e o anticorpo contra o sorovar mais prevalente foi o Hardjo. Uma amostra de soro amplificou 549pb para o gene sec y, e no sequenciamento foi identificada como Leptospira interrogans. Este é o primeiro relato da região noroeste do estado do Paraná (PR) relacionado à identificação de L. interrogans de bovinos de leite naturalmente infectados e em virtude dos resultados deste trabalho são necessários novos estudos sorológicos e moleculares em criações de gado de leite de regiões fronteiriças para se caracterizar a epidemiologia dos possíveis genótipos e suas possíveis consequências nos rebanhos afetados visando sempre à eficiência da produção.