A case of canine visceral leishmaniasis of unknown origin in Curitiba (state of Paraná, Brazil) treated successfully with miltefosine / Caso de leishmaniose visceral canina de origem desconhecida em Curitiba (Estado do Paraná, Brasil) tratado com sucesso com miltefosina

There are no records of autochthonous cases of canine visceral leishmaniasis in the city of Curitiba, Paraná state, Brazil. In 2020, a male French bulldog (CW01), approximately 2 years old was taken by its owners to a private veterinarian clinic. The suspicion of CVL was confirmed by means of a serology test (ELISA/IFAT reagent), rapid chromatographic immunoassay (DPP®) (ELISA - Biomanguinhos®), parasitological culture and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The animal routinely frequented parks in Curitiba and was taken on several trips to the municipalities of Bombinhas and Balneário Camboriú (Santa Catarina) and to Matinhos (Paraná) where CVL had not previously been reported. Treatment was initiated orally with Milteforan™ which resulted in a significant reduction in the parasitic load. The suspicion of autochthony was investigated through entomological research. A total of 10 traps were installed, one at the animal's home, seven in adjacent city blocks and two in a forest edge. No sandflies were trapped in the dog's home and adjacent houses. The traps in the forest edge caught one Migonemyia migonei female and five Brumptomyia spp. females. This case serves as a warning of the possible introduction of CVL in the city of Curitiba.(AU)

Não há registros de casos autóctones de leishmaniose visceral canina (LVC) no município de Curitiba, Paraná, Brasil. Em 2020, um "bulldog" francês macho (CW01), com aproximadamente 2 anos de idade, foi levado por seus donos a uma clínica veterinária particular. A suspeita de LVC foi confirmada por meio de teste sorológico (reagente ELISA/IFAT), imunoensaio cromatográfico rápido (DPP®) (ELISA - Biomanguinhos®), cultura parasitológica e reação quantitativa em cadeia da polimerase (qPCR). O animal frequentava, rotineiramente, parques de Curitiba e foi levado em diversas viagens para Bombinhas e Balneário Camboriú (Santa Catarina) e para Matinhos (Paraná), onde a LVC não havia sido relatada anteriormente. O tratamento foi iniciado por via oral com Milteforan™ (Virbac) o que resultou em redução significativa da carga parasitária. A suspeita de autóctone foi investigada por meio de pesquisa entomológica. Foram instaladas 10 armadilhas, uma na casa do animal, sete em quarteirões adjacentes e duas na borda da mata. Nenhum inseto foi capturado na casa do proprietário do animal e nas casas adjacentes. As armadilhas na borda da mata capturaram uma fêmea de Migonemyia migonei e cinco Brumptomyia spp. fêmeas. Este caso serve de alerta para a possível introdução da LVC na cidade de Curitiba.(AU)

Spatial distribution analysis of bovine fascioliasis cases recorded in an abattoir in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil / Análise da distribuição espacial dos casos de fasciolose bovina registrados em abatedouro de Santa Catarina, Brasil

Fascioliasis is a zoonosis of global distribution caused by the parasitic trematode Fasciola spp. Infection in humans can occur in areas endemic for animal fascioliasis, suggesting the need for studies on this parasitosis and its determinants. This exploratory study aimed to analyze the spatial distribution of bovine fascioliasis in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, based on cases notified between 2015 and 2017 in a state abattoir, located in the municipality of Orleans, and to associate disease occurrence with altitude, temperature, and rainfall. The research was conducted at Centro Universitário Barriga Verde (UNIBAVE)/Orleans, SC and Fundação Oswaldo Cruz/Rio de Janeiro, RJ. During the study period, the abattoir received animals from 58 municipalities in that state. Of the animals slaughtered in that period, 10,81% were infected with Fasciola hepatica. Presence of bovine fascioliasis infection was identified in the South and Southeast regions of the state, with higher prevalence rates in the latter. There was an association between low altitudes and higher occurrence of cases in the municipalities assessed. In addition, prevalence of bovine fascioliasis was higher in municipalities with high temperatures and low rainfall. Therefore, these results should be considered for planning disease control measures in the South and Southeast regions of the state of Santa Catarina.

A fasciolose é uma zoonose de distribuição global causada pelo parasita Fasciola spp. Infecções em humanos podem ocorrer em áreas endêmicas para fasciolose animal, sugerindo a necessidade de estudos sobre essa parasitose e seus determinantes. O presente estudo exploratório teve como objetivo analisar a distribuição espacial da fasciolose bovina, no estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil, a partir de casos notificados entre 2015 e 2017 no abatedouro frigorífico estadual, localizado em Orleans, SC, e associar a ocorrência da doença a altitude, temperatura e precipitação. A pesquisa foi conduzida na Universidade Barriga Verde em Orleans, SC e na Fundação Oswaldo Cruz no Rio de Janeiro, RJ. No período de análise o matadouro recebeu animais de 58 municípios do estado de Santa Catarina. Dos animais abatidos nesse período, 10,81% estavam infectados por Fasciola hepatica. A presença da infecção por fasciolose foi encontrada no Sul no território estudado, com maiores prevalências no Sudeste do estado. Houve uma associação entre baixas altitudes e maior ocorrência de fasciolose nos municípios. A prevalência de fasciolose bovina foi também maior em municípios com altas temperaturas e com baixa pluviosidade. Sendo assim, esses resultados devem ser levados em consideração para o planejamento de medidas de controle da doença no Sul de Santa Catarina.

Assessment of renal functions and lesions in dogs with serological diagnosis of canine visceral leishmaniasis

Background: Visceral leishmaniasis is a complex vector-borne disease caused by the protozoan Leishmania infantum. In urban centers of South America, where this zoonotic cycle occurs, dogs seem to be the main reservoirs and infection sources. Animals with canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) may have a wide clinical spectrum, and dogs are usually classified as asymptomatic, oligosymptomatic, and symptomatic. Several organs are affected in canine CVL, and renal involvement is often a determining factor in dog prognosis. Nevertheless, serum markers are slow to indicate loss of renal function. The aim of this study was to evaluate kidney impairment in dogs diagnosed with CVL. Materials, Methods & Results: Blood and urine samples were collected from 45 dogs from Barra Mansa-RJ, and used for urinalysis, urine protein/creatinine (UPC) ratio, and serum concentrations of urea and creatinine. The animals were classified as symptomatic (42.2%), oligosymptomatic (37.8%), and asymptomatic (20.0%). Some alterations were found in the urine samples; pale-yellow color in 17.8%, low specific gravity in 6.7%, turbidity in 51.1%, proteinuria in 80%, occult blood in 46.7%, bilirubin in 8.89%, and glucose in 6.7% of the samples. According to the UPC ratio, 60% of dogs were proteinuric, and UPC > 2.0 was high in symptomatic dogs. Azotemia was observed only in three dogs with CVL. Discussion: The majority of dogs presented one or more symptoms of CVL, as expected in an endemic area from Brazil. Pale-yellow urine was observed in some samples, and this change, when accompanied by the decreased urine specific gravity in dogs with CVL, suggests some degree of kidney disease. The presence of epithelial and red blood cells, leukocytes, bacteria, suspended mucus, and phosphate crystals that precipitate in alkaline urines could be associated, to some degree, with the urine turbidity found in the present study. The alkaline urine identified in some dogs could be related to...

Parasite load, iNOS and cytokine profiles, and histopathological aspects of Leishmania infantum infection in dogs with different clinical presentations / Carga Parasitária, iNOS, citocinas e histopatologia na infecção por Leishmania infantum em cães com apresentações clínicas distintas

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a zoonotic disease with a canine urban reservoir in South America. Dogs from an endemic area within Brazil, which were naturally infected with Leishmania infantum, and those presenting severe clinical (SC), mild, or no clinical (MNC) disease, were evaluated. Parasite load, histopathology, and cytokine and iNOS mRNA expressions were assessed in the spleen and liver in order to determine the potential markers for disease susceptibility or resistance. As a result, dogs with both SC and MNC had high parasite loads; IFN-γ was the most expressive cytokine in both organs, along with IL-6 and IL-4 being detected in the spleen and liver, and IL-10 only in liver. The hepatic tissue presented higher medians for IFN-γ and IL-10, and was the main organ to produce cytokines with hepatic IL-10 suggesting a regulatory follow up. Granulomas were detected in both organs; however, when absent in spleen, they were associated with elevated IL-6 levels, thus highlighting the anti-inflammatory role of IL-6. Microscopic lesions in the spleen were predominantly characterized by an extensively disorganized white pulp and splenic response was suggested as sub optimized. Parasite load, tissue damage, and immunological response may vary in the dogs with similar clinical symptoms, which may not be a good parameter for assessing the animals susceptibility to VL.(AU)

A Leishmaniose visceral (LV) é uma doença zoonótica com reservatório canino na América do Sul. Cães oriundos de área endemica brasileira, naturalmente infectados por Leishmania infantum, apresentando doença clínica severa (CS) ou doença branda ou ausente (BA) foram avaliados. Carga parasitária, histopatologia e expressão de mRNA de citocinas e iNOS foram analisados em baço e fígado, buscando determinar possíveis marcadores de susceptibilidade ou resistência à doença. Como principais resultados, tanto cães CS como BA apresentaram alta carga parasitária. IFN-γ foi a citocina mais expressiva em ambos os órgãos, sendo IL-6 e IL-4 também detectadas em baço e fígado e IL-10 em fígado. No tecido hepático foram encontradas as maiores medianas de IFN-γ e IL-10, sendo o fígado o principal órgão produtor de citocinas, com IL-10 sugerindo acompanhamento regulatório. Granulomas foram detectados em ambos os órgãos. Quando de sua ausência no baço, essa foi associada à elevação dos níveis de IL-6, salientando o papel anti-inflamatório dessa citocina. Alterações microscópicas foram principalmente caracterizadas por extensiva desorganização de polpa branca, com a resposta esplência sendo sugerida como subotimizada. Carga parasitária, dano tecidual e resposta immune variaram mesmo em cães com quadros clínicos similares, não sendo, portanto, a análise clínica um bom parâmetro para avaliação de susceptibilidade animal à LV.(AU)

Cryptosporidium spp. in Aratinga jandaia, Diopsittaca nobilis and Pionus menstruus in Brazil

Background: Cryptosporidium is an important protozoan in public health and veterinary medicine that often causes diarrhea in an array of hosts in developed/developing countries. Infection of the gastrointestinal system is the most common, but the respiratory system and other sites can also be affected, especially in birds and immunocompromised individuals. Transmission occurs through ingestion or inhalation of oocysts. The number of wild animals, including those in the class of birds, infected with this parasite has grown in recent years. This study aimed to report parasitism by Cryptosporidium spp. in captive-raised birds of family Psittacidae at the Rio City Zoo in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty-three pools of fecal samples of the species Amazona aestiva, Amazona amazonica, Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus, Ara auricollis, Ara canga, Ara glaucogularis, Ara macao, Ara manilapa, Ara maracana, Ara rubrogenys, Aratinga erythrogenys, Aratinga cactorum, Aratinga auerea, Aratinga mitrata, Aratinga auricapilla, Aratinga jandaia, Aratinga wagleri, Aratinga leucophthalmus, Brotogeris acuticaudata, Cynoliseus patagonus, Caracopsis vasa, Diopsittaca nobilis, Graydidascalus brachyurus, Muopsitta monachus, Nangayus nenday, Pionites melancephala, Pionites leucogaster, Pionus menstruus, Pionus chalcopteus, Pionus maxiliani, Pyrrhura perlata, Pyrrhura leucotis, and Triclharia malachitacea, kept in separate enclosures, were analyzed using Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) for detection of parasitic antigens. Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) was conducted in order to identify the species Cryptosporidium in the positive samples targeting the small subunit ribosomal RNA gene (SSU rRNA), followed by sequencing and analysis of the DNA amplicons.[...]

Cryptosporidium spp. in Aratinga jandaia, Diopsittaca nobilis and Pionus menstruus in Brazil

Background: Cryptosporidium is an important protozoan in public health and veterinary medicine that often causes diarrhea in an array of hosts in developed/developing countries. Infection of the gastrointestinal system is the most common, but the respiratory system and other sites can also be affected, especially in birds and immunocompromised individuals. Transmission occurs through ingestion or inhalation of oocysts. The number of wild animals, including those in the class of birds, infected with this parasite has grown in recent years. This study aimed to report parasitism by Cryptosporidium spp. in captive-raised birds of family Psittacidae at the Rio City Zoo in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty-three pools of fecal samples of the species Amazona aestiva, Amazona amazonica, Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus, Ara auricollis, Ara canga, Ara glaucogularis, Ara macao, Ara manilapa, Ara maracana, Ara rubrogenys, Aratinga erythrogenys, Aratinga cactorum, Aratinga auerea, Aratinga mitrata, Aratinga auricapilla, Aratinga jandaia, Aratinga wagleri, Aratinga leucophthalmus, Brotogeris acuticaudata, Cynoliseus patagonus, Caracopsis vasa, Diopsittaca nobilis, Graydidascalus brachyurus, Muopsitta monachus, Nangayus nenday, Pionites melancephala, Pionites leucogaster, Pionus menstruus, Pionus chalcopteus, Pionus maxiliani, Pyrrhura perlata, Pyrrhura leucotis, and Triclharia malachitacea, kept in separate enclosures, were analyzed using Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) for detection of parasitic antigens. Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) was conducted in order to identify the species Cryptosporidium in the positive samples targeting the small subunit ribosomal RNA gene (SSU rRNA), followed by sequencing and analysis of the DNA amplicons.[...](AU)

Can vaccines against canine visceral leishmaniasis interfere with the serological diagnostics recommended by the Brazilian Ministry of Health? / Vacinas anti-leishmaniose visceral canina podem interferir no diagnóstico sorológico preconizado pelo Ministério da Saúde brasileiro?

The objective of the current research was to assess seroconversion in dogs immunized with Leishmune® and Leish Tec® vaccines using rapid chromatographic immunoassay DPP® (Dual Path Platform) (DPP CVL) and enzyme immunoassay (EIE) up to one year after the vaccination protocol. The study sample comprised 28 dogs divided into two groups, each group immunized with an anti-CVL vaccine and clinically monitored for one year through clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. 22 (78.5%) dog were monitored. During the evaluation time (T1-30 days, T2-6 months, and T3-1 year after vaccination) the results for all dogs were negative for CVL, except for one animal vaccinated with Leish tec® that seroconverted in the DPP CVL test at T2. Subsequent examinations of this dog were negative. Our results showed that in a non-endemic area, even at different evaluation times, dogs vaccinated against CVL with Leishmune® or Leish tec® did not seroconvert in the serological protocol used by the Brazilian Ministry of Health (DPP/EIE).

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a soroconversão em cães imunizados com as vacinas Leishmune® e Leish tec®, através do teste imunocromatográfico rápido DPP® (Dual Path Platform) (DPP LVC) e do ensaio imunoenzimático (EIE) durante um ano após o protocolo vacinal. Trata-se de um estudo onde 28 cães divididos em dois grupos foram imunizados cada um com uma vacina anti - LVC e acompanhados durante um ano através de avaliação clínica e exames laboratoriais. Foi possível acompanhar 22 (78.5%) cães. Nos exames dos tempos 1, 2 e 3 (respectivamente 30 dias, 6 messes e 1 ano após a vacinação) os resultados de todos os cães também foram negativos para LVC, exceto de um cão que recebeu a vacina Leish tec® e soroconverteu no DPP LVC no T2, após 6 meses a vacina. Os exames posteriores deste cão foram negativos. Os resultados do presente estudo demostraram que, em área não endêmica e mesmo em diferentes tempos de avaliação, cães vacinados contra LVC, independente da vacina utilizada, não foram capazes de soroconverter no protocolo utilizado pelo Ministério da Saúde brasileiro (DPP/EIE).

Can vaccines against canine visceral leishmaniasis interfere with the serological diagnostics recommended by the Brazilian Ministry of Health? / Vacinas anti-leishmaniose visceral canina podem interferir no diagnóstico sorológico preconizado pelo Ministério da Saúde brasileiro?

The objective of the current research was to assess seroconversion in dogs immunized with Leishmune® and Leish Tec® vaccines using rapid chromatographic immunoassay DPP® (Dual Path Platform) (DPP CVL) and enzyme immunoassay (EIE) up to one year after the vaccination protocol. The study sample comprised 28 dogs divided into two groups, each group immunized with an anti-CVL vaccine and clinically monitored for one year through clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. 22 (78.5%) dog were monitored. During the evaluation time (T1-30 days, T2-6 months, and T3-1 year after vaccination) the results for all dogs were negative for CVL, except for one animal vaccinated with Leish tec® that seroconverted in the DPP CVL test at T2. Subsequent examinations of this dog were negative. Our results showed that in a non-endemic area, even at different evaluation times, dogs vaccinated against CVL with Leishmune® or Leish tec® did not seroconvert in the serological protocol used by the Brazilian Ministry of Health (DPP/EIE).(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a soroconversão em cães imunizados com as vacinas Leishmune® e Leish tec®, através do teste imunocromatográfico rápido DPP® (Dual Path Platform) (DPP LVC) e do ensaio imunoenzimático (EIE) durante um ano após o protocolo vacinal. Trata-se de um estudo onde 28 cães divididos em dois grupos foram imunizados cada um com uma vacina anti - LVC e acompanhados durante um ano através de avaliação clínica e exames laboratoriais. Foi possível acompanhar 22 (78.5%) cães. Nos exames dos tempos 1, 2 e 3 (respectivamente 30 dias, 6 messes e 1 ano após a vacinação) os resultados de todos os cães também foram negativos para LVC, exceto de um cão que recebeu a vacina Leish tec® e soroconverteu no DPP LVC no T2, após 6 meses a vacina. Os exames posteriores deste cão foram negativos. Os resultados do presente estudo demostraram que, em área não endêmica e mesmo em diferentes tempos de avaliação, cães vacinados contra LVC, independente da vacina utilizada, não foram capazes de soroconverter no protocolo utilizado pelo Ministério da Saúde brasileiro (DPP/EIE).(AU)

Serological diagnosis of feline tegumentary leishmaniasis by indirect immunofluorescence (IFI) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in an endemic area in Brazil

Background: American tegumentary leishmaniasis (ATL) is a serious public health problem, and the participation of domestic cats in its epidemiological process has not yet been fully elucidated. Therefore, the standardization of monitoring methodologies of cat populations becomes important for the generation of information on the disease. In Brazil, ATL presents a wide geographical distribution, being Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis its etiologic agent of ATL in Rio de Janeiro. The main objective of the present study was investigate the presence of specific anti-Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis Immunoglobulin G (IgG) in 34 cats from an ATL endemic area in this municipality. Materials, Methods & Results: Sera from three cats from the study area naturally infected with Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis were used as positive control. Analyses were performed with antigen preparations using indirect immunofluorescence (IFI) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We found prevalence rates of 20.6% (7/34) in the IFI and 14.7% (5/34) in the ELISA. Specificity was 87.1% for the IFI and 93.5% for the ELISA, and both tests presented sensitivity of 100%. Concordance between the used tests was assessed as moderate. Discussion: By conducting a feline serological survey in an endemic area for ATL we provide information on the involvement of this species in such epidemiological [...](AU)

Serological diagnosis of feline tegumentary leishmaniasis by indirect immunofluorescence (IFI) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in an endemic area in Brazil

Background: American tegumentary leishmaniasis (ATL) is a serious public health problem, and the participation of domestic cats in its epidemiological process has not yet been fully elucidated. Therefore, the standardization of monitoring methodologies of cat populations becomes important for the generation of information on the disease. In Brazil, ATL presents a wide geographical distribution, being Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis its etiologic agent of ATL in Rio de Janeiro. The main objective of the present study was investigate the presence of specific anti-Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis Immunoglobulin G (IgG) in 34 cats from an ATL endemic area in this municipality. Materials, Methods & Results: Sera from three cats from the study area naturally infected with Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis were used as positive control. Analyses were performed with antigen preparations using indirect immunofluorescence (IFI) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We found prevalence rates of 20.6% (7/34) in the IFI and 14.7% (5/34) in the ELISA. Specificity was 87.1% for the IFI and 93.5% for the ELISA, and both tests presented sensitivity of 100%. Concordance between the used tests was assessed as moderate. Discussion: By conducting a feline serological survey in an endemic area for ATL we provide information on the involvement of this species in such epidemiological [...]

Feline sporotrichosis: coinfection with Toxoplasma gondii, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus and Feline Leukemia Virus in cats from an endemic area in Brazil

Background: Sporotrichosis is an endemic zoonosis in the metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro caused by fungi included in the Sporothrix complex, in which cats are the main source of infection for humans and animals. Coinfections in cats with sporotrichosis from this region, their risk factors and how they affect the treatment outcome in these animals are little known. The objectives of this study were to determine the coinfections of Sporothrix spp. with Toxoplasma gondii, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and to correlate these infections with risk factors and the outcome of sporotrichosis treatment in cats from an endemic area of sporotrichosis in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.Materials, Methods & Results: It was conducted a cohort study involving 213 cats with definitive diagnosis of sporotrichosis from the metropolitan area of Rio de Janeiro and assisted in the Laboratory of Clinical Research on Dermatozoonosis in Domestic Animals (LAPCLIN-DERMZOO)/Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI)/Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), in Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil, from November 2007 until February 2011. These animals were monthly evaluated due to sporotrichosis treatment until their sporotrichosis treatment outcomes. In every clinical evaluation, 5 mL of blood were collected in order to obtain the serum, which was stored at -20ºC. Information from the animals medical records have also been collected, such as sex, eating habits, living with other cats, access to the streets, castration, age and the outcome of sporotrichosis treatment. Serological follow-up of anti-T. gondii antibodies were performed through indirect hemagglutination assay (IHA) and indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) in all clinical evaluations. The FIV and FeLV antibody detection were made through a rapid immunoassay using the catsserum samples from the first clinical evaluation.[...](AU)

Feline sporotrichosis: coinfection with Toxoplasma gondii, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus and Feline Leukemia Virus in cats from an endemic area in Brazil

Background: Sporotrichosis is an endemic zoonosis in the metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro caused by fungi included in the Sporothrix complex, in which cats are the main source of infection for humans and animals. Coinfections in cats with sporotrichosis from this region, their risk factors and how they affect the treatment outcome in these animals are little known. The objectives of this study were to determine the coinfections of Sporothrix spp. with Toxoplasma gondii, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and to correlate these infections with risk factors and the outcome of sporotrichosis treatment in cats from an endemic area of sporotrichosis in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.Materials, Methods & Results: It was conducted a cohort study involving 213 cats with definitive diagnosis of sporotrichosis from the metropolitan area of Rio de Janeiro and assisted in the Laboratory of Clinical Research on Dermatozoonosis in Domestic Animals (LAPCLIN-DERMZOO)/Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI)/Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), in Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil, from November 2007 until February 2011. These animals were monthly evaluated due to sporotrichosis treatment until their sporotrichosis treatment outcomes. In every clinical evaluation, 5 mL of blood were collected in order to obtain the serum, which was stored at -20ºC. Information from the animal’s medical records have also been collected, such as sex, eating habits, living with other cats, access to the streets, castration, age and the outcome of sporotrichosis treatment. Serological follow-up of anti-T. gondii antibodies were performed through indirect hemagglutination assay (IHA) and indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) in all clinical evaluations. The FIV and FeLV antibody detection were made through a rapid immunoassay using the cats’serum samples from the first clinical evaluation.[...]

Serological survey of cases of canine visceral leishmaniasis and evaluation of phlebotomine fauna on Marambaia Island, municipality of Mangaratiba, Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil / Levantamento sorológico de casos de leishmaniose visceral canina eavaliação da fauna de flebotomíneos na Ilha da Marambaia,município de Mangaratiba, estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

The state of Rio de Janeiro is epidemiologically classified as a region of low incidence for American visceral leishmaniasis (AVL); however, endemic areas have expanded dramatically in recent years. In 2009 and 2010, autochthonous cases of AVL were reported in the municipality of Maricá and in the neighborhood of Laranjeiras in the city of Rio de Janeiro, respectively. In 2006, samples isolated in infected animals in the coastal area of the municipality of Mangaratiba were characterized as L. (L.) chagasi. In 2002, on Marambaia Island, located in Mangaratiba, only cases of American cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) were recorded. This study aimed to reassess the prevalence of CVL and identify the phlebotomine fauna on Marambaia Island, Mangaratiba, in 2012. To this end, a canine serological survey was carried out using IFA, ELISA and DPP techniques. In addition, phlebotomi were captured with the help of light traps, HP type.  The census totaled 116 dogs, and 17 animals tested positive with prevalence of 14.6%.  From April to November 2012, 2,524 sandfly specimens of nine different species were captured. We observed the maintenance of CVL prevalence in the region, as well as the presence of the Lutzomyia longipalpis vector.(AU)

O estado do Rio de Janeiro é classificado epidemiologicamente como uma região de baixa incidência de leishmaniose visceralamericana (LVA), no entanto, áreas endêmicas têm se expandido drasticamente nos últimos anos. Em 2009 e 2010, foram notificadoscasos autóctones de LVA no município de Maricá e no bairro de Laranjeiras, na cidade de Rio de Janeiro, respectivamente. Em2006, em amostras de animais infectados no litoral do município de Mangaratiba foram isoladas e caracterizadas L. (L.) chagasi.Em 2002, na Ilha da Marambaia, localizada em Mangaratiba, foram registrados apenas os casos de leishmaniose tegumentaramericana (LTA). Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a prevalência da LVC e identificar a fauna de flebotomíneos na Ilha daMarambaia, Mangaratiba, em 2012. Para este fim, um inquérito sorológico canino foi realizado utilizando as técnicas IFA, ELISAe DPP. Além disso, foram capturados flebótomos com a ajuda de armadilhas luminosas, tipo HP. O censo totalizou 116 cães e 17animais foram positivos com a prevalência de 14,6%. Entre abril e novembro de 2012, foram capturados, nove espécies diferentesflebotomíneos, um total de 2.524 espécimes. Observou-se a manutenção da LVC prevalência na região, bem como a presençado vetor Lutzomyia longipalpis.(AU)

Leishmania (Leishmania) hertigi in a porcupine (Coendou sp. ) found in Brasília, Federal District, Brazil / Leishmania (Leishmania) hertigi em porco-espinho (Coendou sp. ) encontrado em Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brasil

Studies report the occurrence of Leishmania (Leishmania) hertigi in northern states of Brazil. In the present investigation, we describe the isolation of L. (L.) hertigi from a porcupine (Coendou sp.) found in Brasília, Federal District, center-west region of Brazil. During a study on canine visceral leishmaniasis conducted in the city of Brasília, Federal District, a porcupine was found dead on a public road. The animal was identified and fragments of intact skin and spleen were collected for isolation of parasite in the culture. This report of the occurrence of L. hertigi in another part of Brazil may help establish the distribution of this parasite in the country. Further studies are needed to better understand the role of L. hertigi in the pathology and pathogenesis of leishmaniasis and its survival in mammals and possible vectors.

Alguns estudos relatam o encontro de Leishmania (Leishmania) hertigi em estados da região Norte do Brasil. Na presente investigação, os autores descrevem o isolamento de Leishmania (Leishmania) hertigi em um porco-espinho (Coendou sp.) encontrado em Brasília, Distrito Federal, região Centro-oeste do Brasil. Durante um estudo de leishmaniose visceral canina conduzido na cidade de Brasília, Distrito Federal, um porco-espinho foi encontrado morto em via pública. O animal foi identificado e fragmentos de pele íntegra e baço foram coletados para isolamento do parasito em cultura. Esse relato da ocorrência de L. hertigi em outra região do Brasil pode contribuir para evidenciar a distribuição desse parasita no país. Vale ressaltar a necessidade de estudos para compreensão do papel L. hertigi na patologia e patogênese da leishmaniose e a sua sobrevivência em mamíferos e possíveis vetores.

First autochthonous case of canine visceral leishmaniasis in Volta Redonda, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Primeiro caso autóctone de leishmaniose visceral canina em Volta Redonda, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

In Brazil, American visceral leishmaniasis (AVL) is caused by Leishmania (Leishmania) chagasi and its main vector is Lutzomyia longipalpis. Cases of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) in non-endemic areas have been reported over the last few years throughout the country. The objective of this research note is to describe an autochthonous case of CVL that occurred in the municipality of Volta Redonda, state of Rio de Janeiro, an area where the disease is not endemic, alerting veterinarians and the scientific community to the expansion of this important zoonosis and advising veterinary practitioners on how to deal with a suspicion of CVL. Canine visceral leishmaniasis can be misdiagnosed within a broad spectrum of canine diseases based on clinical and laboratory findings. Therefore, knowledge of its clinical manifestations, specific and sensitive laboratory diagnostic tests and parasitological procedures are of the utmost importance for rapid confirmation and notification of a case, thus contributing directly to the control of a focus.

No Brasil a leishmaniose visceral americana (LVA) é causada por Leishmania (Leishmania) chagasi e tem como seu principal vetor Lutzomyia longipalpis. Nos últimos anos vêm sendo relatados casos de leishmaniose visceral canina (LVC) em áreas não endêmicas em todo país. O objetivo desta nota é descrever um caso autóctone de LVC no município de Volta Redonda, Estado do Rio de Janeiro, área não endêmica para essa doença e assim, chamar a atenção dos clínicos veterinários e da comunidade científica para a expansão dessa importante zoonose, além de orientar os médicos veterinários, como proceder frente a um caso suspeito de LVC. A LVC pode ser clínica e laboratorialmente confundida com uma ampla gama de patologias caninas e o conhecimento de suas manifestações clínicas e de procedimentos laboratoriais específicos e sensíveis para esse diagnóstico, são de grande importância para uma rápida confirmação e notificação do caso, contribuindo assim diretamente para o controle do foco.

Leishmaniose visceral canina: dois casos autóctones no município de Florianópolis, estado de Santa Catarina / Canine visceral leishmaniasis: two autochthonous cases in Florianópolis municipality, Santa Catarina State, Brazill

Background: Brazil faces an expansion and urbanization of American visceral leishmaniasis with human and canine cases in several metropolises. This report describes two cases of autochthonous canine visceral leishmaniasis in the city of Florianópolis, state of Santa Catarina, classified as an area previously without disease transmission. Case: Five dogs from Canto dos Araçás, Lagoa da Conceição, Florianópolis municipality, which had no history of displacement to other municipalities, were studied by collecting clinical specimens in an attempt to isolate the parasite and to confirm the infection by Leishmania. For sampling the animals were sedated and after local shaving, asepsis and anesthesia with lidocaine HCl 2%, two fragments of apparently healthy skin of the scapular region with the aid of a 3 mm punch were obtained. The two fragments were placed in sterile saline plus antibiotics and antifungal agents solution to attempt the isolation of the parasite in NNN culture medium plus Schneider's medium. In addition to the collection of skin fragment, animals underwent bone marrow (BM) needle aspiration, obtained from the manubrium of the sternum, using a 20 mL syringe with 40x12 mm needle and aspiration biopsy of popliteal lymph nodes using Valeri citoaspirador 10 mL syringe and 25x8 mm needle, both performed after local shaving, asepsis and anesthesia with 2% lidocaine. The material collected from punctures biopsies was also seeded in an attempt of isolating the parasites. Among the five examined animals, in three cases promastigotes were isolated, two of which through the cultivation of skin fragments and one through a punctured sample of the lymph node. In two cases isoenzymatic characterization and identifying parasites such as Leishmania chagasi could be performed. Discussion: The LVC findings in Florianópolis, Santa Catarina generates great concern due to lack of knowledge of the actual spread of the disease, transmission dynamics in this area, knowledge of the vector, wild reservoirs and even in relation to the canine population exposed, for the first time, to Leishmania chagasi. These peculiar conditions may contribute to the onset of an abrupt expansion of the disease, differently from endemic regions. This fact can also be observed in many other cities in Brazil, mainly due to the development and expansion of road networks and the popularity of air travel, which increases the transit of people and their pets thereby increasing the risk of dispersion, not only of LVC, as of other infectious diseases to non-endemic areas. Another important point which causes dispersion of the LVC is related to some owners' attempt to get around the main control method, which is euthanasia for positive dogs, and end up moving their animals to areas where there is no endemic canine serological survey, endangering the population of these areas. The use of some tools could avoid this type of dispersal, as the tighter control of the movement of dogs from endemic areas, implementation of mandatory serological diagnosis and mandatory reporting of positive canine cases. Moreover, educational measures to educate dog owners and veterinarians from the public and private sectors would also help in trying to minimize this problem. In this sense, it is extremely important that the entomological and epidemiological surveillance aimed at LVC are deployed and implemented in free areas, aiming at detecting the presence of vector and/or canine enzootic diseases before installing the anthropozoonotic cycle, allowing unprecedented action aimed at preventing the occurrence of disease in humans, or even prepare the health services and the population to fight the problem.

Canine visceral leishmaniasis: seroprevalence and risk factors in Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil / Leishmaniose visceral canina: soroprevalência e fatores de risco em Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brasil

In Brazil, canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) is endemic and the number of cases in humans and dogs has increased in the Midwest region. A transversal study was carried out in endemic areas from Cuiabá, State of Mato Grosso, to assess data on seroprevalence and risk factors associated to canine infection. Four hundred and thirty (430) dogs were randomly evaluated through indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT) considering variables related to the animals, the environment and the knowledge by owners on CVL aspects and control. From 430 dogs, 95 (22.1%) were seroreagent for leishmaniasis and animals living in rural environments present risk 1.9 times higher for acquiring the disease than those in urban environments (p = 0.01; OR 1.9). Factors related to animals' habits, such as free access to the street and guard function were considered indicators to predict infection by Leishmania sp. (p < 0.05) by statistical univariate analysis. The presence of agricultural activities was also a fact that contributed for the insurgence of the infection (p = 0.02; OR 1.68). The results contributed to the knowledge on the aspects of CVL in Cuiabá and point to an urgent need to include educational and sanitary programs in the city, since the region presents favorable characteristics for spreading the infection of CVL as already observed in other Brazilian cities.(AU)

No Brasil, a leishmaniose visceral canina (CLV) é endêmica e, na região Centro-Oeste, o número de casos em humanos e cães tem aumentado. Um estudo transversal foi realizado em áreas endêmicas de Cuiabá (MT) com objetivo de avaliar dados sobre a soroprevalência e determinar os fatores de risco associados à infecção canina. Quatrocentos e trinta (430) cães foram aleatoriamente avaliados pelo teste de imunofluorescência indireta, considerando-se variáveis relacionadas aos animais, o ambiente e o conhecimento por parte dos proprietários sobre aspectos da CLV e seu controle. Dos 430 cães, 95 (22,1%) apresentaram-se soros reagentes para leishmaniose, e os animais que viviam em ambiente rural apresentaram risco 1,9 vezes maior de adquirir a infecção dos que aqueles em ambiente urbano (p = 0,01; OR 1,9). Fatores relacionados aos hábitos dos animais, tais como o livre acesso à rua e função de guarda, foram considerados indicadores para prever a infecção por Leishmania sp. (p.< 0,05) em análise estatística univariada. A presença de atividade agrícola foi também um fato que contribuiu para a ocorrência da infecção (p = 0,02; OR 1,68). Os resultados contribuem para o conhecimento sobre os aspectos da CVL em Cuiabá e apontam para uma necessidade urgente de incluir ações educativas e sanitárias na cidade, já que a região possui características favoráveis para a dispersão da doença como já observado em outras cidades.(AU)

Micobacteriose cutânea atípica felina autóctone no município do Rio de Janeiro-Brasil / Autochthonous Case of Feline Atypical Cutaneous Mycobacteriosis in the Municipality of Rio de Janeiro-Brazil

Background: Cutaneous mycobacterioses show a worldwide distribution and manifest as three forms: atypical mycobacteriosis, feline leprosy and cutaneous tuberculosis. Atypical cutaneous mycobacteriosis in cats is a rare disease commonly caused by fast-growing mycobacteria belonging group IV of the Runyon classification. This report describes for the first time an autochthonous case of atypical cutaneous mycobacteriosis in a cat from the municipality of Rio de Janeiro. Case: A castrated female mongrel cat presented multiple ulcerated, exudative and alopecic lesions in different regions of the body. After sedation of the animal with 1% acepromazine hydrochloride (0.1 mg/kg) and 10% ketamine hydrochloride (10 mg/kg), clinical examination was performed and an exudate was collected from the ulcerated skin lesion for cytopathological analysis and mycological culture. The slide containing the lesion impression was stained by a rapid panoptic method. For fungal culture, material was collected with a sterile swab, seeded onto Sabouraud dextrose agar containing chloramphenicol and mycobiotic agar, and incubated at 25ºC. After antisepsis and asepsis, local anesthesia was performed with 2% lidocaine hydrochloride without vasoconstrictor and a 4 mm punch biopsy was collected from the lesion, fixed in 10% buffered formalin and sent for histopathological analysis. No fungal structures were detected by cytopathological or mycological analysis. Histopathological examination revealed ulcerated skin and the presence of a marked and diffuse pyogranulomatous infiltrate in the superficial and deep dermis, which also involving the subcutaneous tissue and underlying muscle tissue. Grocott’s or PAS staining did not identify fungal structures. The Wade method was positive for acid-fast bacteria suggestive of Mycobacterium. Analysis of the hematological and biochemical profiles revealed no noteworthy alterations.(...)

Micobacteriose cutânea atípica felina autóctone no município do Rio de Janeiro-Brasil / Autochthonous Case of Feline Atypical Cutaneous Mycobacteriosis in the Municipality of Rio de Janeiro-Brazil

Background: Cutaneous mycobacterioses show a worldwide distribution and manifest as three forms: atypical mycobacteriosis, feline leprosy and cutaneous tuberculosis. Atypical cutaneous mycobacteriosis in cats is a rare disease commonly caused by fast-growing mycobacteria belonging group IV of the Runyon classification. This report describes for the first time an autochthonous case of atypical cutaneous mycobacteriosis in a cat from the municipality of Rio de Janeiro. Case: A castrated female mongrel cat presented multiple ulcerated, exudative and alopecic lesions in different regions of the body. After sedation of the animal with 1% acepromazine hydrochloride (0.1 mg/kg) and 10% ketamine hydrochloride (10 mg/kg), clinical examination was performed and an exudate was collected from the ulcerated skin lesion for cytopathological analysis and mycological culture. The slide containing the lesion impression was stained by a rapid panoptic method. For fungal culture, material was collected with a sterile swab, seeded onto Sabouraud dextrose agar containing chloramphenicol and mycobiotic agar, and incubated at 25ºC. After antisepsis and asepsis, local anesthesia was performed with 2% lidocaine hydrochloride without vasoconstrictor and a 4 mm punch biopsy was collected from the lesion, fixed in 10% buffered formalin and sent for histopathological analysis. No fungal structures were detected by cytopathological or mycological analysis. Histopathological examination revealed ulcerated skin and the presence of a marked and diffuse pyogranulomatous infiltrate in the superficial and deep dermis, which also involving the subcutaneous tissue and underlying muscle tissue. Grocotts or PAS staining did not identify fungal structures. The Wade method was positive for acid-fast bacteria suggestive of Mycobacterium. Analysis of the hematological and biochemical profiles revealed no noteworthy alterations.(...)(AU)

Uso do iodeto de potássio no tratamento da esporotricose em cão refratário ao cetoconazol e itraconazol – relato de caso / Use of potassium iodide in the treatment of sporotrichosis in dog after failure treatment with ketoconazole and itraconazole – a case report / Uso del ioduro de potasio en el tratamiento de la esporotricosis en un perro refractario al ketoconazol e Itraconazol – relato de caso

A esporotricose é uma doença que acomete o homem e os animais de forma subaguda ou crônica, sendo considerada a micose subcutânea mais comum na América Latina. No estado do Rio de Janeiro, assumiu proporções epidêmicas, sendo o gato infectado o principal transmissor da doença. No cão, a doença é menos frequente, entretanto, estudos descrevem que desde 1998 houve um aumento do número de casos. O tratamento de infecções micóticas em animais é um desafio aos veterinários, uma vez que a maioria dos agentes antifúngicos sistêmicos apresenta efeitos adversos importantes. Este estudo relata um caso de esporotricose canina que foi refratário ao uso de cetoconazol e itraconazol, tratado em seguida com iodeto de potássio. Com esse relato, verificou-se que nos casos refratários ao tratamento convencional com cetoconazol e itraconazol, o iodeto de potássio em capsulas é uma alternativa para o tratamento da esporotricose canina.

Sporotrichosis is a disease that affects humans and animals in a subacute or chronic form. It is considered the most common subcutaneous mycosis in Latin America, having reached epidemic proportions in the state of Rio de Janeiro. The infected cat is the main transmitter of the disease. Although it occurs less frequently in dogs, studies report an increase in the number of cases since 1998. The treatment of fungal infections in animals is a challenge for veterinarians, since the majority of systemic antifungal agents have significant adverse effects. This study reports a case of canine sporotrichosis that was refractory to the use of ketoconazole and itraconazole that was treated with potassium iodide. We conclude that potassium iodide in capsules is an alternative for the treatment of canine sporotrichosis in cases that are refractory to conventional treatment with ketoconazole and itraconazole.

La esporotricosis es una enfermedad que afecta tanto al hombre como a los animales de forma subaguda o crónica, siendo considerada la micosis subcutánea más común en América Latina. En el estado de Río de Janeiro se ha transformado en una enfermedad epidémica, siendo el gato infectado el principal agente transmisor. En el perro es menos frecuente; no obstante existen estudios comprobando que desde 1998 ha habido un aumento en el número de casos. El tratamiento de las infecciones micóticas en animales es un desafío para los médicos veterinarios, ya que la mayoría de los agentes antifúngicos sistémicos suelen presentar importantes efectos adversos. En el presente relato se presenta un caso de esporotricosis canina que fue refractario al tratamiento con ketoconazol e itraconazol, que posteriormente recibió tratamiento con ioduro de potasio. En este trabajo se pudo comprobar que en los pacientes refractarios al ketoconazol e itraconazol, el ioduro de potasio en cápsulas representa una alternativa para el tratamiento de la esporotricosis canina.