Zoonoses como importantes causas de internamento hospitalar: um estudo de 15 anos em Portugal / Zoonoses as important causes of hospital admission: a 15-year study in Portugal

As zoonoses representam 75% das doenças emergentes. Estas doenças são uma ameaça permanente à saúde e bem-estar humanos, e têm o potencial de se tornar cada vez mais frequentes devido à degradação de habitats, alteração de utilização das terras, e aumento da mobilidade global de pessoas, animais e produtos animais. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar o impacto de dez zoonoses (brucelose, cisticercose, equinococose, leishmaniose, leptospirose, doença de Lyme, raiva, toxoplasmose, triquinelose e febre do Nilo Ocidental) nos internamentos em hospitais do Serviço Nacional de Saúde português entre 2002 e 2016.(AU)

Clinical, hematological and risk factors associated with borreliosis in horses from Sao Paulo, Brazil / Fatores clínicos, hematológicos e de risco associados à borreliose em cavalos de São Paulo, Brasil

Lyme borreliosis is caused by Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato and affects humans and many other mammals, including horses. This disease is poorly studied and reported in horses, and epidemiological surveys are required to provide more precise information about the course of the disease. The aims of the present study were to determine the prevalence of seropositive horses for Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato in São Paulo State, Brazil and to collect data on possible risk factors associated with the disease along with clinical and hematological changes in seropositive horses. There was verified that there was a high correlation between the occurrence of seropositive horses infested with Amblyomma sculptum ticks and the presence of capybaras on the property as well as the occurrence of abortion and retained placenta in mares. In terms of hematological alterations, the occurrence of lymphopenia was observed in seropositive animals. Borreliosis in horses from São Paulo, Brazil can be associated with presence of Amblyomma scupltum ticks, proximity with capybaras and can be manifested as alterations in reproduction of mares and lymphopenia.

A borreliose de Lyme é causada por Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato e afeta humanos e muitos outros mamíferos, incluindo cavalos. Esta doença é pouco estudada e relatada em equinos, sendo necessários levantamentos epidemiológicos para fornecer informações mais precisas sobre o curso da doença. Os objetivos do presente estudo foram determinar a prevalência de cavalos soropositivos para Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato no Estado de São Paulo, Brasil e coletar dados sobre possíveis fatores de risco associados à doença, juntamente com alterações clínicas e hematológicas em cavalos soropositivos. Verificou-se que houve alta correlação entre a ocorrência de equinos soropositivos infestados por carrapatos Amblyomma sculptum e a presença de capivaras nas propriedades, bem como a ocorrência de abortamento e retenção de placenta em éguas. Em termos de alterações hematológicas, observou-se a ocorrência de linfopenia em animais soropositivos. A borreliose em cavalos de São Paulo, Brasil, pode estar associada à presença de carrapatos Amblyomma scupltum, proximidade com capivaras e se manifestar clinicamente como alterações reprodutivas em éguas e linfopenia.

Clinical, hematological and risk factors associated with borreliosis in horses from Sao Paulo, Brazil / Fatores clínicos, hematológicos e de risco associados à borreliose em cavalos de São Paulo, Brasil

Lyme borreliosis is caused by Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato and affects humans and many other mammals, including horses. This disease is poorly studied and reported in horses, and epidemiological surveys are required to provide more precise information about the course of the disease. The aims of the present study were to determine the prevalence of seropositive horses for Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato in São Paulo State, Brazil and to collect data on possible risk factors associated with the disease along with clinical and hematological changes in seropositive horses. There was verified that there was a high correlation between the occurrence of seropositive horses infested with Amblyomma sculptum ticks and the presence of capybaras on the property as well as the occurrence of abortion and retained placenta in mares. In terms of hematological alterations, the occurrence of lymphopenia was observed in seropositive animals. Borreliosis in horses from São Paulo, Brazil can be associated with presence of Amblyomma scupltum ticks, proximity with capybaras and can be manifested as alterations in reproduction of mares and lymphopenia.(AU)

A borreliose de Lyme é causada por Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato e afeta humanos e muitos outros mamíferos, incluindo cavalos. Esta doença é pouco estudada e relatada em equinos, sendo necessários levantamentos epidemiológicos para fornecer informações mais precisas sobre o curso da doença. Os objetivos do presente estudo foram determinar a prevalência de cavalos soropositivos para Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato no Estado de São Paulo, Brasil e coletar dados sobre possíveis fatores de risco associados à doença, juntamente com alterações clínicas e hematológicas em cavalos soropositivos. Verificou-se que houve alta correlação entre a ocorrência de equinos soropositivos infestados por carrapatos Amblyomma sculptum e a presença de capivaras nas propriedades, bem como a ocorrência de abortamento e retenção de placenta em éguas. Em termos de alterações hematológicas, observou-se a ocorrência de linfopenia em animais soropositivos. A borreliose em cavalos de São Paulo, Brasil, pode estar associada à presença de carrapatos Amblyomma scupltum, proximidade com capivaras e se manifestar clinicamente como alterações reprodutivas em éguas e linfopenia.(AU)

Experimental infection by Borrelia anserina strain PL in Gallus gallus / Infecção experimental de Borrelia anserina cepa PL em Gallus gallus

Avian borreliosis is a tick-borne acute septicemic disease that affects a variety of avian species and is caused by the bacterium Borrelia anserina. The present study aimed to establish the infection dynamics of B. anserina in experimentally infected Gallus gallus to determine its impact on the health and weight gain of the animals. Forty G. gallus were divided into four groups. Group 1 (G1) included 10 animals inoculated intramuscularly (IM) with 250µL of blood serum containing 3.7x106 spirochetes per milliliter. Group 2 (G2) included 10 animals inoculated IM with 250µL of saline 0.9%. Group 3 (G3) included 10 animals infested with four Argas miniatus nymphs (3rd instar) infected with B. anserina strain PL. Group 4 (G4) included 10 animals infested with four A. miniatus nymphs (3rd instar) free of infection by B. anserina. The number of spirochetes in the blood was directly proportional to the appearance of clinical signs and symptoms. This is the first study showing the experimental clinical evolution of the B. anserina PL strain in G. gallus. Additionally, the first assessments of spirochetaemia are presented, based on the direct count of bacteria in the serum by a Neubauer chamber, during the infection.(AU)

Borreliose aviária é uma doença septicêmica aguda transmitida por carrapatos que afeta uma variedade de espécies aviárias e é causada pela bactéria Borrelia anserina. O presente estudo teve como objetivo estabelecer a dinâmica da infecção de B. anserina em Gallus gallus experimentalmente infectados e determinar seu impacto na saúde e no ganho de peso dos animais. Quarenta G. gallus foram divididos em quatro grupos. O Grupo 1 (G1) incluiu 10 animais inoculados por via intramuscular (IM) com 250µL de soro sanguíneo contendo 3,7x106 espiroquetas por mL; Grupo 2 (G2) incluiu 10 animais inoculados IM com 250µL de soro fisiológico 0,9%; Grupo 3 (G3) incluiu 10 animais infestados com quatro ninfas de Argas miniatus (3º instar) infectadas com B. anserina cepa PL. O Grupo 4 (G4) incluiu 10 animais infestados com quatro ninfas de A. miniatus (3º instar) livres de infecção por B. anserina. O número de espiroquetas no sangue foi diretamente proporcional ao aparecimento de sinais e sintomas clínicos. Este é o primeiro estudo que mostra a evolução clínica experimental da cepa B. anserina PL em G. gallus. Além disso, são apresentadas as primeiras avaliações da espiroquetemia, baseadas na contagem direta da bactéria no soro por uma câmara de Neubauer, durante a infecção.(AU)

Otite média e interna com extensão para tronco encefálico em buldogue francês / Otitis media and internal with brainstem extension in a French bulldog

Background: Otitis is a frequent condition in dogs, with a multifactorial etiology covering primary causes, predisposing and perpetuating factors. It is characterized by an inflammatory process of structures that make up the auditory system, with prevalence data ranging from 15 to 20%, which can occur in any age group and without sex predisposition. According to the location, it can be classified as uni or bilateral, affecting the outer, middle and / or inner ear, the latter two being associated with neurological changes such as vestibulopathy, facial nerve paresis and Horner's syndrome. The morbidity and mortality of otitis media and internal may increase with delay in diagnosis, resulting in delay in the correct treatment, and the extension to brainstem is described in felines and considered rare in dogs. The present study aims to report an atypical case of otitis media and internal, with extension to the brain parenchyma in a brachycephalic dog. Case: A 3-year-old bitch French Bulldog was seen, weighing 12 kg, with a history of vomiting, apathy, nystagmus, ataxia and acute evolution hemiparesis. As a result of adoption, it was not known about the animal's morbid past. On special physical and clinical examination, depressed mental status, changes in postural reactions, nostril stenosis with unilateral mucopurulent nasal discharge, corneal ulcer, palpebral and labial ptosis, absence of eyelid reflex and spontaneous strabismus were observed, all of these findings observed on the left side of the face. No signs of otitis external to otoscopy were found. The clinical signs found characterize left facial nerve paresis and peripheral and central vestibulopathy. Otitis media / internal and meningoencephalitis were suspected. Hemogram, serum biochemistry (glucose, urea, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase, total proteins, albumin, globulin, alkaline phosphatase, gamma glutamyltransferase, phosphorus, total bilirubin, cholesterol and total calcium), urinalysis, rapid tests for erlichiosis, anaplasms , borreliosis, heartworm, distemper and leishmaniasis, CSF analysis, neurological panel performed by PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) that tested the animal for Bartonellosis, Lyme Disease (Borrelia burgdorferi), Blastomyces dermatitidis, Cryptococcus sp., Virus West Nile, Distemper, Toxoplasmosis, Neosporose and Coccidioides sp. using conjunctival swab, whole blood, urine and CSF samples. The samples were negative for all of these tests. As an image exam, brain magnetic resonance was performed. In the latter, otitis media and left internal was observed with extension of the lesion to the brain parenchyma. CSF analysis showed cytological changes compatible with a non-suppurative inflammatory process, mild pleocytosis with predominantly mononuclear leukocyte infiltrate. As a form of treatment, antibiotic therapy and total ablation of the auditory canal with lateral bulectomy were performed, showing good results with reduced clinical symptoms. Discussion: It is concluded that although the diagnosis of otitis media and internal with extension to brainstem is more common in cats, it should be included as a differential for central vestibular disorders in dogs, and that the diagnosis together with early and effective treatment are important, since that the evolution of the infection to the central nervous system represents a risk to the patient.

First serological detection of Borrelia spp. in dogs in western Cuba / Primeira detecção sorológica de Borrelia spp. em cães na região oeste de Cuba

This study aimed to verify the presence of IgG antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l) in domestic dogs in western Cuba. Serum samples were analyzed by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), using crude antigens of a B. burgdorferi strain of North American origin. To verify the presence of Borrelia spp., deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) extracted from individual blood samples was analyzed by nested-PCR, with markers targeted for amplification of portions of the flagellin B gene (flaB) present in Borrelia spirochetes. Ticks were also collected through inspection of the animals. Sera from 93 of 176 (52.84%) dogs were reactive to the indirect ELISA. Geographic prevalence varied from 54.35% (25/46) in Boyeros, 44.44% (20/45) in Cotorro, 66.67% (22/33) in Habana del Este, and 50% (26/52) in San José de las Lajas. There was no statistical difference between these tested variables. No blood samples analyzed were positive for the Borrelia flaB gene.(AU)

Este estudo teve como objetivo confirmar a presença de anticorpos IgG contra Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l) em cães na região oeste de Cuba. As amostras de soro foram analisadas por ensaio de imunoabsorção enzimática (ELISA) indireto, usando-se antígenos brutos de uma cepa de B. burgdorferi de origem norte-americana. Para confirmar a presença de Borrelia spp., o ácido desoxirribonucleico (DNA), extraído de amostras individuais de sangue, foi analisado por PCR, utilizando-se marcadores direcionados para a amplificação de porções do gene da flagelina B (flaB) presente nas espiroquetas de Borrelia. Os carrapatos também foram coletados através da inspeção dos animais. Os soros de 93 de 176 (52,84%) cães foram reativos ao ELISA indireto. A prevalência geográfica variou de 54,35% (25/46) em Boyeros, 44,44% (20/45) em Cotorro, 66,67% (22/33) em Habana del Este e 50% (26/52) em San José de las Lajas. Não houve diferença estatística entre essas variáveis testadas. Nenhuma amostra de sangue analisada foi positiva para o gene Borrelia flaB.(AU)

Rodents as potential reservoirs for Borrelia spp. in northern Chile / Roedores como potenciais reservatórios de Borrelia spp. no norte do Chile

Small mammals play an essential role in the transmission and maintenance cycles of Borrelia spirochetes. In Chile, recent studies have characterized novel Borrelia genotypes in ticks collected from small mammals, a fact that suggests these vertebrates are hosts for spirochetes from this genus. Considering this evidence, the goal of this study was to determine the presence of Borrelia DNA in small mammals inhabiting northern Chile. In winter of 2018, 58 small mammals were captured in five localities. Blood samples were collected from rodents and DNA was extracted to determine the presence of Borrelia DNA by PCR targeting the flaB gene and rrs–rrlA intergenic spacer (IGS). From three individuals (5%), belonging to two rodent species of Cricetidae family (Phyllotis xanthopygus and Oligoryzomys longicaudatus), we retrieved three flaB and two IGS Borrelia genotypes. Phylogenetic analyses performed with both Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian inferences showed that our sequences grouped with homologous genotypes from the relapsing fever and Lyme borreliosis groups. Our findings suggest that P. xanthopygus and O. longicaudatus rodents may play a role as reservoirs for borrelial spirochetes in Chile.(AU)

Pequenos mamíferos possuem um papel essencial na transmissão e manutenção de espiroquetas do gênero Borrelia. No Chile, estudos recentes têm descrito novos genótipos de Borrelia em carrapatos, parasitando pequenos mamíferos. Isso sugere que esses vertebrados podem atuar como possíveis reservatórios dessas espiroquetas. Considerando-se essa evidência, o objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a presença de DNA de Borrelia em pequenos mamíferos da região norte do Chile. Durante o inverno de 2018, 58 pequenos mamíferos foram capturados em cinco localidades. Amostras de sangue obtidas a partir dos indivíduos capturados foram submetidas à extração de DNA e ensaios de PCR, para a detecção de Borrelia spp. baseados no gene flaB e espaçador intergênico rrs–rrlA (IGS). A partir de três espécimes (5%) pertencentes a duas espécies de roedores da família Cricetidae (Phyllotis xanthopygus e Oligoryzomys longicaudatus) obtiveram-se três genótipos de Borrelia para o gene flaB e dois para IGS. Análises filogenéticas inferidas, usando-se os métodos Bayesiano e de Máxima Verossimilhança, indicaram que as sequências geradas neste estudo agrupam-se com borrelias do grupo da Febre Recorrente e Borreliose de Lyme. Os achados deste estudo sugerem que roedores P. xanthopygus e O. longicaudatus poderiam atuar como possíveis reservatórios para Borrelia spp. no Chile.(AU)

Negative results for Borrelia burdgorferi in cows and ticks from a border region between Brazil and Paraguay: a case report / Resultados negativos para Borrelia burgdorferi em vacas e carrapatos de região fronteiriça entre Brasil e Paraguai: relato de Caso

Lyme borreliosis is an infectious disease caused by bacteria of the genus Borrelia. In ruminants, most infections are asymptomatic, but the animals can present myalgia, lameness, laminitis, arthritis, synovitis, neurological symptoms, and also decreased production and abortion. The objective was to investigate Borrelia burgdorferi DNA in cows and cattle ticks on a small dairy farm in a border region. Blood samples and ticks were collected from Holstein cows with a history of decreased milk production and abortions. Borrelia burgdorferi DNA was extracted from blood samples using a commercial extraction kit, and from ticks using an alkaline hydrolysis solution for subsequent nested-PCR. Serum and tick samples did not present Borrelia burgdorferi DNA, and 100% of the ticks were identified as Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. Although this study shows negative results it contributes to understanding the epidemiology of this etiological agent in Paraná and in Brazil, since there are few studies on bovine species. The negative results of this work demonstrate that the animals and ticks researched were not exposed to Borrelia burgdorferi, however, as it isa property located in a border region, the sanitary monitoring of the herd must be performed constantly since this is a region. vulnerable to the entry of potential threats to human, animal and environmental health from vectors and pathogenic microorganisms, given the large extension of the land border with the neighboring country and which also has different health status.

A borreliose de Lyme é uma doença infecciosa causada por bactérias do gênero Borrelia. Nos ruminantes, a infecção é assintomática, mas os animais podem apresentar mialgia, claudicação, laminite, artrite, sinovite, sintomas neurológicos e também diminuição da produção e do aborto. O objetivo foi investigar o DNA de Borrelia burgdorferi em vacas e carrapatos de uma pequena propriedade rural de gado leiteiro em uma região de fronteira. Amostras de sangue e carrapatos foram coletados de vacas da raça Holandesa com histórico de diminuição da produção de leite e abortos. O DNA de Borrelia burgdorferi foi extraído de amostras de sangue usando um kit de extração comercial e de carrapatos usando uma solução de hidrólise alcalina para subsequente nested-PCR. Amostras de soro e carrapato não apresentaram DNA de Borrelia burgdorferi, e 100% dos carrapatos foram identificados como Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. Embora este estudo apresente resultados negativos o mesmo contribui para o entendimento da epidemiologia desse agente etiológico no Paraná e no Brasil, uma vez que existem poucos estudos sobre espécies bovinas. Os resultados negativos deste trabalho demonstram que os animais e carrapatos pesquisados não foram expostos a Borrelia burgdorferi, no entanto, por se tratar de uma propriedade localizada em uma região de fronteira, o monitoramento sanitário do rebanho deve ser realizado constantemente, pois é uma região vulnerável à entrada de ameaças potenciais à saúde humana, animal e ambiental por vetores e microrganismos patogênicos, dada a grande extensão da fronteira terrestre com o país vizinho e que também apresenta diferentes condições de saúde.

Negative results for Borrelia burdgorferi in cows and ticks from a border region between Brazil and Paraguay: a case report / Resultados negativos para Borrelia burgdorferi em vacas e carrapatos de região fronteiriça entre Brasil e Paraguai: relato de Caso

Lyme borreliosis is an infectious disease caused by bacteria of the genus Borrelia. In ruminants, most infections are asymptomatic, but the animals can present myalgia, lameness, laminitis, arthritis, synovitis, neurological symptoms, and also decreased production and abortion. The objective was to investigate Borrelia burgdorferi DNA in cows and cattle ticks on a small dairy farm in a border region. Blood samples and ticks were collected from Holstein cows with a history of decreased milk production and abortions. Borrelia burgdorferi DNA was extracted from blood samples using a commercial extraction kit, and from ticks using an alkaline hydrolysis solution for subsequent nested-PCR. Serum and tick samples did not present Borrelia burgdorferi DNA, and 100% of the ticks were identified as Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. Although this study shows negative results it contributes to understanding the epidemiology of this etiological agent in Paraná and in Brazil, since there are few studies on bovine species. The negative results of this work demonstrate that the animals and ticks researched were not exposed to Borrelia burgdorferi, however, as it isa property located in a border region, the sanitary monitoring of the herd must be performed constantly since this is a region. vulnerable to the entry of potential threats to human, animal and environmental health from vectors and pathogenic microorganisms, given the large extension of the land border with the neighboring country and which also has different health status.(AU)

A borreliose de Lyme é uma doença infecciosa causada por bactérias do gênero Borrelia. Nos ruminantes, a infecção é assintomática, mas os animais podem apresentar mialgia, claudicação, laminite, artrite, sinovite, sintomas neurológicos e também diminuição da produção e do aborto. O objetivo foi investigar o DNA de Borrelia burgdorferi em vacas e carrapatos de uma pequena propriedade rural de gado leiteiro em uma região de fronteira. Amostras de sangue e carrapatos foram coletados de vacas da raça Holandesa com histórico de diminuição da produção de leite e abortos. O DNA de Borrelia burgdorferi foi extraído de amostras de sangue usando um kit de extração comercial e de carrapatos usando uma solução de hidrólise alcalina para subsequente nested-PCR. Amostras de soro e carrapato não apresentaram DNA de Borrelia burgdorferi, e 100% dos carrapatos foram identificados como Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. Embora este estudo apresente resultados negativos o mesmo contribui para o entendimento da epidemiologia desse agente etiológico no Paraná e no Brasil, uma vez que existem poucos estudos sobre espécies bovinas. Os resultados negativos deste trabalho demonstram que os animais e carrapatos pesquisados não foram expostos a Borrelia burgdorferi, no entanto, por se tratar de uma propriedade localizada em uma região de fronteira, o monitoramento sanitário do rebanho deve ser realizado constantemente, pois é uma região vulnerável à entrada de ameaças potenciais à saúde humana, animal e ambiental por vetores e microrganismos patogênicos, dada a grande extensão da fronteira terrestre com o país vizinho e que também apresenta diferentes condições de saúde.(AU)

Prevalência da leishmaniose visceral canina e coinfecções em região periurbana no Distrito Federal - Brasil / Prevalence of visceral canine leishmaniosis and co-infections in periurban region in the Federal District - Brazil

Objetivou-se verificar a prevalência da leishmaniose visceral canina (LVC) em área periurbana com foco de transmissão no Distrito Federal (DF) e também avaliar a prevalência de coinfecções como dirofilariose, anaplasmose, erliquiose e doença de Lyme em cães sororreagentes para LVC. Inicialmente, amostras de soros dos cães da área de estudo foram testadas à reação imunocromatográfica que contém dois antígenos recombinantes ̶ rK39 e rK26 − (DPP) para Leishmania sp. O soro dos animais reagentes ao teste de DPP foi confirmado para LVC com ELISA. As amostras reagentes a ambos os testes foram analisadas para possíveis coinfecções através do teste de SNAP (IDEXX 4Dx Plus). Foram avaliados 240 cães, dos quais 132 (55%) obtiveram resultados reagentes para DPP e para ELISA concomitantemente, sendo diagnosticados com LVC. Destes, 26 (20%) foram reagentes para Ehrlichia canis ou E. ewangii, 9 (7%) apresentaram positividade para Anaplasma phagocytophilum ou A. platys e, nessas amostras que se apresentaram reagentes, observou-se a ocorrência de coinfecção de anaplasmose, erliquiose e leishmaniose em 3 (2,3%) animais. Verificou-se alta prevalência da LVC na região periurbana do DF, destacando-se a necessidade de diagnóstico mais preciso quanto a coinfecções que possivelmente podem influenciar no prognóstico e manifestação do quadro clínico desses pacientes.

The aim of this study was to verify the prevalence of Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis (CVL) in periurban area focusing on transmissions that occurred on Distrito Federal (DF), and also, evaluate the prevalence of co-infections like dirofilariosis, anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis and Lyme disease in dogs seroreagents to CLV. Initially the serum of the dogs inhabitants of the study area was tested according to the immunochromatographic reaction that contained two recombinant antigens - rK39 e rK26 - (DPP) to Leishmania sp. The animal plasma that reacted to the DPP test was confirmed for CVL with ELI-SA. Through confirmation of diagnose of VL by both tests, the samples were analyzed for possible co-infections through SNAP test (IDEXX 4Dx Plus). 240 dogs were tested, 132 (55%) of which obtained reacting results for DPP and for ELISA concomitantly, being diagnosed with CVL. Amongst those, 26 (20%) were positive for Ehrlichia canis or E. ewangii, meanwhile 9 (7%) presented positive results for Anaplasma phagocytophilum or A. platys, from those samples that showed to be positive, co-infection of anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis and leishmaniasis was observed in 3 (2.3%) dogs. The high prevalence of CVL was observed in the periurban region of DF, highlighting the need for more precise diagnosis regarding co-infections that may possibly influence on the prognosis and clinical manifestation of these patients.

Prevalência da leishmaniose visceral canina e coinfecções em região periurbana no Distrito Federal - Brasil / Prevalence of visceral canine leishmaniosis and co-infections in periurban region in the Federal District - Brazil

Objetivou-se verificar a prevalência da leishmaniose visceral canina (LVC) em área periurbana com foco de transmissão no Distrito Federal (DF) e também avaliar a prevalência de coinfecções como dirofilariose, anaplasmose, erliquiose e doença de Lyme em cães sororreagentes para LVC. Inicialmente, amostras de soros dos cães da área de estudo foram testadas à reação imunocromatográfica que contém dois antígenos recombinantes ̶ rK39 e rK26 − (DPP) para Leishmania sp. O soro dos animais reagentes ao teste de DPP foi confirmado para LVC com ELISA. As amostras reagentes a ambos os testes foram analisadas para possíveis coinfecções através do teste de SNAP (IDEXX 4Dx Plus). Foram avaliados 240 cães, dos quais 132 (55%) obtiveram resultados reagentes para DPP e para ELISA concomitantemente, sendo diagnosticados com LVC. Destes, 26 (20%) foram reagentes para Ehrlichia canis ou E. ewangii, 9 (7%) apresentaram positividade para Anaplasma phagocytophilum ou A. platys e, nessas amostras que se apresentaram reagentes, observou-se a ocorrência de coinfecção de anaplasmose, erliquiose e leishmaniose em 3 (2,3%) animais. Verificou-se alta prevalência da LVC na região periurbana do DF, destacando-se a necessidade de diagnóstico mais preciso quanto a coinfecções que possivelmente podem influenciar no prognóstico e manifestação do quadro clínico desses pacientes.(AU)

The aim of this study was to verify the prevalence of Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis (CVL) in periurban area focusing on transmissions that occurred on Distrito Federal (DF), and also, evaluate the prevalence of co-infections like dirofilariosis, anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis and Lyme disease in dogs seroreagents to CLV. Initially the serum of the dogs inhabitants of the study area was tested according to the immunochromatographic reaction that contained two recombinant antigens - rK39 e rK26 - (DPP) to Leishmania sp. The animal plasma that reacted to the DPP test was confirmed for CVL with ELI-SA. Through confirmation of diagnose of VL by both tests, the samples were analyzed for possible co-infections through SNAP test (IDEXX 4Dx Plus). 240 dogs were tested, 132 (55%) of which obtained reacting results for DPP and for ELISA concomitantly, being diagnosed with CVL. Amongst those, 26 (20%) were positive for Ehrlichia canis or E. ewangii, meanwhile 9 (7%) presented positive results for Anaplasma phagocytophilum or A. platys, from those samples that showed to be positive, co-infection of anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis and leishmaniasis was observed in 3 (2.3%) dogs. The high prevalence of CVL was observed in the periurban region of DF, highlighting the need for more precise diagnosis regarding co-infections that may possibly influence on the prognosis and clinical manifestation of these patients.(AU)

Brazilian borreliosis with special emphasis on humans and horses

Borreliosis caused by Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato is a cosmopolitan zoonosis studied worldwide; it is called Lyme disease in many countries of the Northern Hemisphere and Lyme-like or Baggio-Yoshinari Syndrome in Brazil. However, despite the increasing number of suspect cases, this disease is still neglected in Brazil by the medical and veterinary communities. Brazilian Lyme-like borreliosis likely involves capybaras as reservoirs and Amblyomma and Rhipicephalus ticks as vectors. Thus, domestic animals can serve as key carriers in pathogen dissemination. This zoonosis has been little studied in horses in Brazil. The first survey was performed in the state of Rio de Janeiro, and this Brazilian Borreliosis exhibits many differences from the disease widely described in the Northern Hemisphere. The etiological agent shows different morphological and genetic characteristics, the disease has a higher recurrence rate after treatment with antibiotics, and the pathogen stimulates intense symptoms such as a broader immune response in humans. Additionally, the Brazilian zoonosis is not transmitted by the Ixodes ricinus complex. With respect to clinical manifestations, Baggio-Yoshinari Syndrome has been reported to cause neurological, cardiac, ophthalmic, muscle, and joint alterations in humans. These symptoms can possibly occur in horses. Here, we present a current panel of studies involving the disease in humans and equines, particularly in Brazil.(AU)

Interpretation of Coagulation Tendency Contributing to Thrombosis in Vector-Borne Diseases (Ehrlichiosis, Anaplasmosis, Leishmaniosis, and Dirofilariasis) among Dogs

Background: Vector-borne infectious and zoonotic diseases are an important health problem that directly affects human and animal health negatively. Results through evaluation of coagulation disorders among vector-borne diseases should be of beneficial for both human and dogs studies. According to the present authors knowledge reports regarding changes in platelet (PLT) count, prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), fibrinogen (FIB) and D-dimer levels in dogs naturally infected with one or more vector-borne pathogens are lacking. Therefore, the present study was aimed to detecting those parameters for relation between diagnosis and prognosis of vector-borne diseases among dogs.Materials, Methods & Results: The material of this study was 46 dogs (36 were naturally infected with vector-borne diseases and 10 were healthy) from different breed, age and of both sexes. Venous blood samples were obtained to detect PLT counts, antibodies of ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, borreliosis, leishmaniosis and antigens of Dirofilaria immitis. The diagnosis of vector-borne diseases was performed by using a commercial ELISA assay kits. PLT count was performed with an automated blood cell counter analyser. In addition, PT, APTT and FIB concentrations were measured using a microcoagulometer. D-dimer concentrations were determined using fluorescence immunoassay rapid qu

Soroprevalência de anticorpos homólogos antiBorrelia burgdorferi em equinos de uso militar no Brasil / Seroprevalence of homologous antiBorrelia burgdorferi antibodies in horses of military use in Brazil

A maioria das atividades de treinamento militar transcorre em ambiente de risco para aquisição de doenças de transmissãovetorial, incluindo importantes zoonoses e doenças emergentes/reemergentes. O objetivo deste estudo foi relatar a ocorrênciade anticorpos homólogos da classe IgG anti-Borrelia burgdorferi em equinos de uso militar no Brasil, assim como analisar osfatores de risco associados à soropositividade nos animais. Foram estudados dois plantéis de equinos, sendo um no municípiode Resende, estado do Rio de Janeiro, tendo sido encontrada prevalência de 29,9%, e outro no município de São Borja, estadodo Rio Grande do Sul, com prevalência de 44,7%, totalizando 474 animais e prevalência de 39,24%. Na análise dos fatores derisco associados, observou-se que a infestação por carrapatos constituiu-se no fator de risco para a soropositividade. A evidênciade circulação de Borrelia spp. com soroprevalência nos equinos reforça seu papel como sentinela, sendo fator de alerta parapotencial ocorrência de casos humanos. Os resultados obtidos reforçam a importância da vigilância epidemiológica dos carrapatosvetores e sua associação tanto com agentes infecciosos de risco para a saúde do efetivo militar humano, como nos equinos deuso militar nas regiões avaliadas. Isto também realça a necessidade da adoção de medidas de proteção coletivas e individuaisvisando mitigar o risco de doenças transmitidas por carrapatos em atividades militares.(AU)

Most military training activities take place at risk for the acquisition of vector-borne diseases, including important zoonosis andemerging/reemerging diseases This study aimed to analyze the seroprevalence of homologous antibodies antiBorrelia burgdorferiin horses for military use in Brazil, as well as to analyze the risk factors associated with seropositivity in animals. Two herds ofhorses for military use were studied, one in the city of Resende, state of Rio de Janeiro, having been found prevalence of 29.9%,and in São Borja, state of Rio Grande do Sul, with prevalence 44,7% to 474 animals and prevalence of 39,3%. In the analysis ofrisk factors, it was observed that the tick infestation constituted risk factors for seropositivity. Evidence of Borrelia spp. circulationwith seroprevalence in horses reinforces its role as sentinels, and alert factor for potential occurrence of human cases. Theseresults support the importance of epidemiological surveillance of vector ticks and its association with agents of risk to the health ofhorses for military use, in the evaluated areas. This also highlights the need to adopt collective and individual protection measuresto mitigate the risk of tick-borne diseases in military activities.(AU)

Interpretation of coagulation tendency contributing to thrombosis in vector-borne diseases (ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, leishmaniosis, and dirofilariasis) among dogs

Background: Vector-borne infectious and zoonotic diseases are an important health problem that directly affects human and animal health negatively. Results through evaluation of coagulation disorders among vector-borne diseases should be of beneficial for both human and dogs studies. According to the present authors knowledge reports regarding changes in platelet (PLT) count, prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), fibrinogen (FIB) and D-dimer levels in dogs naturally infected with one or more vector-borne pathogens are lacking. Therefore, the present study was aimed to detecting those parameters for relation between diagnosis and prognosis of vector-borne diseases among dogs. Materials, Methods & Results: The material of this study was 46 dogs (36 were naturally infected with vector-borne diseases and 10 were healthy) from different breed, age and of both sexes. Venous blood samples were obtained to detect PLT counts, antibodies of ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, borreliosis, leishmaniosis and antigens of Dirofilaria immitis. The diagnosis of vector-borne diseases was performed by using a commercial ELISA assay kits. PLT count was performed with an automated blood cell counter analyser. In addition, PT, APTT and FIB concentrations were measured using a microcoagulometer. D-dimer concentrations were determined using fluorescence immunoassay rapid quantitave test analyser. Subgroups were formed according to the number of cases and the distribution of vector-borne agent. Statistically significant decreased PLT count was found in dogs mono infected with ehrlichiosis compared to healthy dogs (P < 0.001). Changes in mean PT value in the studied animals did not show statistically significant differences among the groups (P > 0.05). APTT values in the ehrlichiosis mono infection group were significantly higher than that of the healthy control (P < 0.01). A significant increase in FIB levels were detected […](AU)

Interpretation of coagulation tendency contributing to thrombosis in vector-borne diseases (ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, leishmaniosis, and dirofilariasis) among dogs

Background: Vector-borne infectious and zoonotic diseases are an important health problem that directly affects human and animal health negatively. Results through evaluation of coagulation disorders among vector-borne diseases should be of beneficial for both human and dogs studies. According to the present author’s knowledge reports regarding changes in platelet (PLT) count, prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), fibrinogen (FIB) and D-dimer levels in dogs naturally infected with one or more vector-borne pathogens are lacking. Therefore, the present study was aimed to detecting those parameters for relation between diagnosis and prognosis of vector-borne diseases among dogs. Materials, Methods & Results: The material of this study was 46 dogs (36 were naturally infected with vector-borne diseases and 10 were healthy) from different breed, age and of both sexes. Venous blood samples were obtained to detect PLT counts, antibodies of ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, borreliosis, leishmaniosis and antigens of Dirofilaria immitis. The diagnosis of vector-borne diseases was performed by using a commercial ELISA assay kits. PLT count was performed with an automated blood cell counter analyser. In addition, PT, APTT and FIB concentrations were measured using a microcoagulometer. D-dimer concentrations were determined using fluorescence immunoassay rapid quantitave test analyser. Subgroups were formed according to the number of cases and the distribution of vector-borne agent. Statistically significant decreased PLT count was found in dogs mono infected with ehrlichiosis compared to healthy dogs (P 0.05). APTT values in the ehrlichiosis mono infection group were significantly higher than that of the healthy control (P < 0.01). A significant increase in FIB levels were detected […]

"Pesquisa de Borrelia spp. em cães do município de Belágua, Maranhão - Brasil"

O gênero Borrelia é composto por três grupos filogenéticos: Borrelia spp. do grupo Lyme, Borrelia spp. do grupo Febre Recorrente e Borrelia associada aos répteis. Borrelia spp. são espiroquetas transmitidas por artrópodes que usam uma variedade de hospedeiros vertebrados como reservatórios para completar total ou parcialmente seu ciclo de vida. Desta forma, enfermidades que tem como vetores os carrapatos devem ser pesquisados visando o conhecimento das zoonoses, como por exemplo a Febre Recorrente transmitida por carrapatos e a doença de Lyme. Estudar a frequência de animais positivos, como forma de exercer a vigilância epidemiológica, especialmente em casos de zoonoses, torna-se importante, visto que algumas espécies de animais domésticos como os cães podem atuar como sentinelas para a enfermidade. Assim, objetivou-se encotrar bactérias do gênero Borrelia em amostras de sangue de cães domésticos no município de Belágua pertencente à Mesorregião Leste Maranhense. Foi realizado um estudo transversal composto por cães domiciliados de ambos os sexos preferencialmente com idade a partir de 6 meses. Aplicou-se um questionário semiestruturado com os proprietários dos animais com o intuito de obter informações relacionados ao manejo e comportamento do animal. Coletou-se, em média, 5mL de sangue de 206 cães. Para pesquisa do DNA de Borrelia foi realizada nested-PCR. A primeira reação amplifica um fragmento com 665 pares de bases, e a segunda reação é a nested-PCR, que amplifica um fragmento com 354 pares de bases. Para todas as reações Borrelia anserina cepa PL foi usada como controle positivo. A população total desse estudo foi composta por cães domiciliados na zona urbana. Quanto ao sexo, o número de fêmeas foram 109 (52,9%) e machos 97 (47%). Verificou-se que não há diferenças significativas em relação à proporção macho e fêmea (p>0.05). Quanto à faixa etária, 56 (27,1%) da população canina apresentavam idade igual ou inferior a 12 meses. Animais com idade de um a três anos constituíam 72,8% (150) da população. Quanto as atividades de caça, 86,3% não desempenham essa atividade no município de Belágua. Não se observou amplificação de DNA de Borrelia em nenhuma das amostras de sangue coletadas, e assim entendendo que os cães não estavam ativamente infectados por Borrelia spp. no momento da coleta. Diante dos achados, uma sugestão para futuras pesquisas é necessidade de realizar nas amostras estudadas ensaios sorológicos para detectar anticorpos anti-proteína A imunogênica de Borrelia (BipA) e anti-glicerofosfodiéster fosfodiesterase (GlpQ) para conhecer se os cães na região foram expostos as espiroquetas, podendo ser útil na avaliação do papel do cão como sentinela para Febre Recorrente transmitida por carrapatos.

The genus Borrelia is composed of three phylogenetic groups: Borrelia spp. from the Lyme group, Borrelia spp. from the Recurrent Fever group and Borrelia associated with reptiles. Borrelia spp. are arthropod-borne spirochetes that use a variety of vertebrate hosts as reservoirs to fully or partially complete their life cycle. Thus, diseases that have ticks as vectors should be researched in order to understand zoonoses, such as relapsing fever transmitted by ticks and Lyme borreliosis. Studying the frequency of positive animals, as a way of exercising epidemiological surveillance, especially in cases of zoonoses, is important, since some species of domestic animals such as dogs can act as sentinels for the disease. Thus, the objective was to find bacteria of the genus Borrelia in blood samples from domestic dogs in the municipality of Belágua, belonging to the Mesoregion East Maranhense. A cross-sectional study was carried out with domesticated dogs of both sexes, preferably aged from 6 months. A semi-structured questionnaire was applied to the owners of the animals in order to obtain information related to the handling and behavior of the animal. On average, 5mL of blood were collected from 206 dogs. For Borrelia DNA research, nested-PCR was performed. The first reaction amplifies a fragment with 665 base pairs, and the second reaction is the nested-PCR, which amplifies a fragment with 354 base pairs. For all reactions Borrelia anserina strain PL was used as a positive control. The total population of this study consisted of dogs domiciled in the urban area. As for sex, the number of females was 109 (52.9%) and males 97 (47%). It was found that there are no significant differences regarding the male and female ratio (p>0.05). As for the age group, 56 (27.1%) of the canine population were aged less than or equal to 12 months. Animals aged one to three years constituted 72.8% (150) of the population. As for hunting activities, 86.3% do not carry out this activity in the municipality of Belágua. Borrelia DNA amplification was not detected in any of the collected blood samples, thus understanding that the dogs were not actively infected by Borrelia spp. at the time of collection. In view of the findings, a suggestion for future research is the need to perform serological tests in the studied samples to detect antibodies to Borrelia immunogenic protein A (BipA) and anti-glycerophosphodiester phosphodiesterase (GlpQ) to know if dogs in the region were exposed to relapsing fever group borreliae, which may be useful in evaluating the dog's role as a sentinel for tick-borne recurrent fever. Keywords: Borrelia spp. Dogs. tick-borne relapsing fever. Lyme borreliosis. Maranhão

INVESTIGAÇÃO DE Borrelia spp. E ALTERAÇÕES HEMATOLÓGICAS ASSOCIADAS EM GAMBÁS (Didelphis aurita e Didelphis albiventris) DE VIDA LIVRE NO ESTADO DO RIO JANEIRO

A Síndrome Baggio-Yoshinari (SBY) ou Borreliose brasileira é uma zooonose causada por um grande número de espécies do complexo Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato. No Brasil, há relatos de soropositividade em seres humanos, animais domésticos e silvestres. Marsupiais do gênero Didelphis (Linnaeus, 1758) são mamíferos com ampla distribuição nas Américas que apresentam hábito peridomiciliar, o que aumenta o risco de introdução e dispersão de agentes patogênicos. Diante disso, o objetivo do estudo foi investigar ocorrência de Borrelia spp. em Didelphis aurita e D. albiventris de vida livre, que habitavam o bioma Mata Atlântica do Rio de Janeiro, e correlacionar os achados hematológicos com a infecção. Foram analisadas 60 amostras sanguíneas de gambás das espécies D. aurita e D. albiventris, independente de sexo, idade e estado clínico, resgatados pelo CRAS UNESA e atendidos na Universidade de Vassouras. A análise hematológica foi realizada por método manual e a análise molecular por nested-PCR, utilizando primers específicos. Das 60 amostras analisadas, 23,33% (14/60) foram positivas para Borrelia spp. Das sequências de DNA obtidas nesse estudo, 85,71% (12/14), apresentaram alta similaridade (94-99%) com as sequências de Borrelia burgodoferi (8/12 66,67%) e Borrelia sp. (4/12 33,33%) disponíveis no GenBank. Não houve diferença significativa nos parâmetros hematológicos entre animais positivos e negativos e não foi encontrado espiroquetas nos esfregaços sanguíneos avaliados. Conclui-se que marsupiais podem participar da epidemiologia da doença de Lyme no Brasil e a detecção de Borrelia spp. em D. aurita e D. albiventri confirma que a bactéria habita a Mata Atlântica do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, indicando a manutenção de um ciclo silvestre desse patógeno. Ainda, a ausência de alterações clínicas e hematológicas entre animais positivos, sugere a atuação desse marsupial como reservatório de Borrelia spp.

Baggio-Yoshinari Syndrome (BYS) or Brazilian Borreliosis is a zoonosis caused by Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex. In Brazil, there are reports of seropositivity in humans, domestic and wild animals. Didelphis (Linnaeus, 1758) are mammals with wide distribution in the Americas that present peridomiciliary habit, which increases the risk of introduction and dispersion of pathogenic agents. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of Borrelia spp. in the free-living Didelphis aurita and D. albiventris, who inhabited Atlantic Forest biome of Rio de Janeiro, and to correlate hematological findings with infection. Sixty blood samples from D. aurita and D. albiventris opossums were analyzed, regardless of sex, age and clinical status, rescued by CRAS UNESA and attended at Universidade de Vassouras. Hematological analysis was performed by manual method and molecular analysis by nested-PCR, using specific primers. Of the 60 samples analyzed, 23.33% (14/60) were positive for Borrelia spp. Of the DNA sequences obtained in this study, 85.71% (12/14) showed high similarity (94-99%) with the sequences of Borrelia burgodoferi (8/12 66.67%) and Borrelia sp. (4/12 33.33%) available on GenBank. There was no significant difference in hematological parameters between positive and negative animals and no spirochetes were found in the blood smears evaluated. It is concluded that marsupials can participate in the epidemiology of Lyme disease in Brazil and the detection of Borrelia spp. in D. aurita and D. albiventris confirms that the bacterium inhabits Atlantic Forest of Rio de Janeiro State, indicating the maintenance of a wild cycle of this pathogen. Furthermore, the absence of clinical and hematological alterations among positive animals suggests the role of this marsupial as a reservoir of Borrelia spp.

First record of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato antibodies in stray dogs in the northwest region of Parana state, Brazil / Primeira detecção de anticorpos anti-Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato em cães errantes da região noroeste do estado do Paraná, Brasil

The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of B. burgdorferi sensu lato s.l. antibodies in stray dogs of the urban area of Umuarama Town, localized in the northwest region of Parana state, Brazil. Serum samples from 168 dogs were tested using indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and Western Blot (WB) in order to detect anti-Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. antibodies. The IFI analysis was used as screening test and positive results were confirmed employing the WB technique. Sixty-five (38.69%) of 168 serum samples were positive in the IFI; 54 of them (83.07%) were confirmed by the WB. The overall data analysis confirmed the presence of anti-B. burgdorferi s.l. antibodies in 32.14% (54/168) dogs, what suggests that northwest region of Parana State may constitute a risk area for Lyme disease. Further studies are necessary to determine the epidemiological characteristics of this disease in the region studied.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a ocorrência de anticorpos anti-B. burgdorferi sensu lato sl em cães errantes da área urbana da cidade de Umuarama, localizado na região noroeste do estado do Paraná, Brasil. Amostras de soro de 168 cães foram testados utilizando imunofluorescência indireta (IFI) e Western Blot (WB), a fim de detectar anticorpos anti-Borrelia burgdorferi sl. A IFI foi utilizada como teste de triagem e os resultados positivos foram confirmados empregando a técnica de WB. Sessenta e cinco (38,69%) de 168 amostras de soro foram positivas na IFI; 54 deles (83,07%) foram confirmados pela WB. A análise geral dos dados confirmaram a presença de anticorpos anti-B. burgdorferi sl em 32,14% (54/168) dos cães, o que sugere que a região noroeste do Estado do Paraná, pode constituir uma área de risco para a doença de Lyme. Mais estudos são necessários para determinar as características epidemiológicas da doença na região estudada.(AU)

EM CARRAPATOS E EQUINOS NATURALMENTE INFECTADOS NA MICRORREGIÃO DE RIO BRANCO, ESTADO DO ACRE

A borreliose em equinos é uma doença infecciosa causada por bactérias espiroquetas do gênero Borrelia spp. que são transmitidas pela picada de carrapatos. É uma zoonose que acomete animais domésticos e silvestres. No Brasil, os principais carrapatos envolvidos no ciclo epidemiológico da doença são do gênero Amblyomma sp. e Rhipicephalus sp. Esta pesquisa foi realizada com 108 equinos utilizados para trabalho no campo que vivem em fazendas localizadas na microrregião de Rio Branco-Acre, e teve como objetivo determinar a soropositividade destes animais para borreliose, bem como possíveis alterações hematológicas. O ELISA indireto demonstrou uma frequência de 7,4% (8/108) equinos soropositivos e o IDO variou de 37,10 a 290,95. As principais alterações hematológicas dos equinos soropositivos foram anemia, leucocitose e aumento do fibrinogênio sérico. A soropositividade de equinos e a detecção molecular de Borrelia sp. na microrregião de Rio Branco acusa a presença deste agente etiológico no estado.

Borreliosis in horses is an infectious disease caused by spirochete bacteria of the genus Borrelia spp. that are transmitted by tick bites. It is a zoonosis that affects domestic and wild animals. In Brazil, the main ticks involved in the epidemiological cycle of the disease are the genus Amblyomma sp and Rhipicephalus sp. This research was carried out with 108 horses used for work in the field that live on farms located in the micro region of Rio Branco-Acre, and aimed to determine the seropositivity of these animals for borreliosis, as well as possible hematological analyzes. The indirect ELISA showed a frequency of 7.4% (8/108) seropositive horses and the IDO ranged from 37.10 to 290.95. The main hematological changes in seropositive horses were anemia, leukocytosis and increased serum fibrinogen. The seropositivity of horses and the molecular detection of Borrelia sp. in the microregion of Rio Branco, the presence of this etiologic agent is present in the state.