Sarcocystis neurona, seroprevalence of antibodies in equines and research of oocystis in opossum in Ilhéus - Itabuna microregion, Bahia, Brazil / Sarcocystis neurona, seroprevalência de anticorpos em equinos e pesquisa de oocistos em gambás na microrregião de Ilhéus - Itabuna, Bahia, Brasil

Abstract The aims of this study were to determine the seroprevalence of Sarcocystis neurona antibodies in equines in the Ilhéus-Itabuna microregion (BA), and identify possible factors associated with infection. The presence of sporocysts/oocysts of Sarcocystis spp. was also verified in Didelphis spp. A total of 669 serum samples were collected from equines in 56 properties located in 12 municipalities in the region. Indirect fluorescent antibody test was performed with slides containing merozoites of the S. neurona, using a cut-off titer of 1:80. Occurrence of 7.92% of anti-S. neurona antibodies was observed in the sampled equines. The purposes trade and work were significantly associated with the presence of antibodies (p<0.05), and being used for the purpose of work (21.6%) was considered a risk factor, while being used for the purpose of trade (3.6%) was a protective factor. A total of 25 Didelphis spp. was captured for research on sporocysts/oocysts in stool samples and intestinal scrapings, being all negative. Didelphis spp. were all negative for the presence of Sarcocystis spp. and this circumstance does not change the fact that seroprevalence of S. neurona has been observed in horses raised in the southern Bahia.

Resumo O presente estudo foi realizado na microrregião de Ilhéus-Itabuna, Bahia. Os objetivos deste estudo foram determinar a soroprevalência de anticorpos contra Sarcocystis neurona em equinos da microrregião Ilhéus-Itabuna (BA) e identificar possíveis fatores associados à infecção. A presença de esporocistos/oocistos de Sarcocystis spp. também foi pesquisada em Didelphis spp. Foram coletadas 669 amostras de soro de equinos em 56 propriedades localizadas em 12 municípios da região. Foi utilizada a reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI), utilizando-se lâminas confeccionadas com merozoítos de Sarcocystis neurona (cepa SN138) e ponto de corte na diluição de 1:80. A ocorrência de anticorpos anti- S. neurona, nos equinos amostrados, foi de 7,92%. As finalidades dos animais - comércio e trabalho - apresentaram-se significativas (p<0.05), sendo que a finalidade trabalho (21,6%) foi considerada fator de risco, enquanto a finalidade comércio (3,6%) foi considerada fator de proteção. Foram capturados 25 Didelphis spp., para pesquisa de esporocistos/oocistos em amostras de fezes e raspado de mucosa intestinal. Todos os Didelphis spp. foram negativos para a presença de Sarcocystis spp., mesmo assim essa circunstância não alterou o fato da ocorrência de S. neurona ter sido observada em cavalos criados na mesorregião do sul da Bahia.

Molecular diagnosis and risk factors of canine ehrlichiosis in the municipality of Itabuna-Bahia, Brazil / Diagnóstico molecular e fatores de risco da erliquiose canina no município de Itabuna-Bahia

Ehrlichiosis is an emerging zoonosis worldwide and has had several adverse effects on public health. Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME), caused by Ehrlichia canis, has the tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus as the vector. The main clinical signs in affected dogs are fever, apathy, anorexia, weight loss, and neurological signs. The diagnosis is made through the association of clinical signs with parasitological, serological, and molecular tests. The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of E. canis infection in dogs from the city of Itabuna-Bahia, as well as to identify the risk factors related to infection. For this, 405 dogs from the Center for Zoonoses Control (CCZ), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and dogs domiciled and semi-domiciled in the city of Itabuna, southern Bahia, were evaluated. After initial physical evaluation of the dogs, blood samples were collected by venipuncture for subsequent DNA extraction and E. canis testing using the nested Polymerase Chain Reaction (nested-PCR) technique. In addition, an epidemiological questionnaire that included questions related to the animals was administered to the dog owners to identify the risk factors for exposure to the etiological agent and to the vector. Approximately 17% of the dogs in the municipality of Itabuna-Bahia tested positive for E. canis by nested-PCR, a result higher than that found in other studies conducted in the same municipality. Among the factors associated with E. canis infection, contact with other dogs (p = 0.0226) was an important factor for the dissemination of CME, since dogs are reported to be reservoirs of E. canis. Male dogs (p = 0.0016) presented lower risk for E. canis infection. Other studies, however, describe no association between animal gender and infection by E. canis. Preventive measures to reduce exposure to the vector of ehrlichiosis are necessary.

A erliquiose é uma zoonose emergente em todo o mundo e tem acarretado diversos transtornos para a saúde pública. A erliquiose monocítica canina (EMC), causada pela Ehrlichia canis, tem como vetor o carrapato Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Os principais sinais clínicos nos cães afetados são febre, apatia, anorexia, perda de peso e sinais neurológicos. O diagnóstico é feito através da associação dos sinais clínicos, exames parasitológicos, sorológicos e moleculares. Objetivou-se através deste estudo avaliar a ocorrência de infecção por E. canis em cães do município de Itabuna-Bahia, bem como identificar os fatores de risco relacionados à infecção. Para tanto, foram avaliados 405 cães provenientes do Centro de Controle de Zoonoses (CCZ), Organizações não governamentais (ONGs), cães domiciliados e semi-domiciliados da cidade de Itabuna-Bahia. Após avaliação física inicial dos cães, procedeu-se em seguida a coleta de amostras de sangue por punção venosa, para posterior extração de DNA e pesquisa de E. canis pela técnica de nested-Reação em Cadeia de Polimerase (nested-PCR). Adicionalmente, um questionário epidemiológico foi aplicado junto aos responsáveis, no qual constavam questões relacionadas aos animais, com a finalidade de identificar os fatores de risco de exposição destes ao agente etiológico e ao vetor. Em suma, este estudo mostrou que aproximadamente 17% dos cães do município de Itabuna-Bahia foram positivos para E. canis pela nested-PCR, resultado superior ao encontrado em outros estudos realizados no mesmo município. Dos fatores associados à infecção por E. canis, foi significativo o contato com outros cães (p=0,0226), um fator importante para a disseminação da EMC, pois os cães são relatados como reservatórios da E. canis. O gênero macho (p=0,0016) apresentou menor risco para a infecção por E. canis. Outros estudos, no entanto, descrevem que não há nenhuma associação entre o gênero do animal e a infecção por...

Molecular diagnosis and risk factors of canine ehrlichiosis in the municipality of Itabuna-Bahia, Brazil / Diagnóstico molecular e fatores de risco da erliquiose canina no município de Itabuna-Bahia

Ehrlichiosis is an emerging zoonosis worldwide and has had several adverse effects on public health. Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME), caused by Ehrlichia canis, has the tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus as the vector. The main clinical signs in affected dogs are fever, apathy, anorexia, weight loss, and neurological signs. The diagnosis is made through the association of clinical signs with parasitological, serological, and molecular tests. The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of E. canis infection in dogs from the city of Itabuna-Bahia, as well as to identify the risk factors related to infection. For this, 405 dogs from the Center for Zoonoses Control (CCZ), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and dogs domiciled and semi-domiciled in the city of Itabuna, southern Bahia, were evaluated. After initial physical evaluation of the dogs, blood samples were collected by venipuncture for subsequent DNA extraction and E. canis testing using the nested Polymerase Chain Reaction (nested-PCR) technique. In addition, an epidemiological questionnaire that included questions related to the animals was administered to the dog owners to identify the risk factors for exposure to the etiological agent and to the vector. Approximately 17% of the dogs in the municipality of Itabuna-Bahia tested positive for E. canis by nested-PCR, a result higher than that found in other studies conducted in the same municipality. Among the factors associated with E. canis infection, contact with other dogs (p = 0.0226) was an important factor for the dissemination of CME, since dogs are reported to be reservoirs of E. canis. Male dogs (p = 0.0016) presented lower risk for E. canis infection. Other studies, however, describe no association between animal gender and infection by E. canis. Preventive measures to reduce exposure to the vector of ehrlichiosis are necessary.(AU)

A erliquiose é uma zoonose emergente em todo o mundo e tem acarretado diversos transtornos para a saúde pública. A erliquiose monocítica canina (EMC), causada pela Ehrlichia canis, tem como vetor o carrapato Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Os principais sinais clínicos nos cães afetados são febre, apatia, anorexia, perda de peso e sinais neurológicos. O diagnóstico é feito através da associação dos sinais clínicos, exames parasitológicos, sorológicos e moleculares. Objetivou-se através deste estudo avaliar a ocorrência de infecção por E. canis em cães do município de Itabuna-Bahia, bem como identificar os fatores de risco relacionados à infecção. Para tanto, foram avaliados 405 cães provenientes do Centro de Controle de Zoonoses (CCZ), Organizações não governamentais (ONGs), cães domiciliados e semi-domiciliados da cidade de Itabuna-Bahia. Após avaliação física inicial dos cães, procedeu-se em seguida a coleta de amostras de sangue por punção venosa, para posterior extração de DNA e pesquisa de E. canis pela técnica de nested-Reação em Cadeia de Polimerase (nested-PCR). Adicionalmente, um questionário epidemiológico foi aplicado junto aos responsáveis, no qual constavam questões relacionadas aos animais, com a finalidade de identificar os fatores de risco de exposição destes ao agente etiológico e ao vetor. Em suma, este estudo mostrou que aproximadamente 17% dos cães do município de Itabuna-Bahia foram positivos para E. canis pela nested-PCR, resultado superior ao encontrado em outros estudos realizados no mesmo município. Dos fatores associados à infecção por E. canis, foi significativo o contato com outros cães (p=0,0226), um fator importante para a disseminação da EMC, pois os cães são relatados como reservatórios da E. canis. O gênero macho (p=0,0016) apresentou menor risco para a infecção por E. canis. Outros estudos, no entanto, descrevem que não há nenhuma associação entre o gênero do animal e a infecção por...(AU)

Hematological and biochemical evaluation of dogs undergoing treatment with veterinary dental gel for the reduction of plaque and dental calculus

Background: Periodontal disease affects a large proportion of dogs, causing both local and systemic symptoms. Severalstudies to identify alternative approaches for plaque reduction and removal have been conducted. Recently, Tropiclean FreshBreath Clean Teeth Gel was introduced as an adjuvant to aid in plaque and calculus removal. This product is formulatedusing Aloe vera, green tea, and mint; however, studies on the toxic potential of this product have not been performed yet.The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of Tropiclean Fresh Breath Clean Teeth Gel product on hematologicaland biochemical profiles in dogs undergoing 90-day treatment with the product.Materials, Methods & Results: Per manufacturers’ recommendation, the product should be used daily for 30 consecutivedays, and subsequently, as maintenance at two to three times a week. In this study, 48 dogs with periodontal disease whoreceived prolonged daily treatment for 90 consecutive days underwent hematological and biochemical evaluation. Duringthe 90 days’ treatment duration, the animals were examined daily to identify the presence of adverse effects; and changesin halitosis were reported. At pre-treatment time-point, 5 mL of blood was collected via cephalic or jugular vein puncturein EDTA tubes for determining the complete blood count (CBC), and in tubes without EDTA for the urea, creatinine,and ALT levels; in addition, for comparison, blood was collected after 90 days’ treatment. At post-treatment time-point,the hematological and biochemical analyses showed significantly lower total leukocyte count as compared to that at pretreatment (P < 0.01); comprising lower neutrophil count as the cell type involved (P < 0.05). The other parameters showedno statistically significant differences, demonstrating an absence of the products’ effect in terms of alteration of theseprofiles...

Hematological and biochemical evaluation of dogs undergoing treatment with veterinary dental gel for the reduction of plaque and dental calculus

Background: Periodontal disease affects a large proportion of dogs, causing both local and systemic symptoms. Severalstudies to identify alternative approaches for plaque reduction and removal have been conducted. Recently, Tropiclean FreshBreath Clean Teeth Gel was introduced as an adjuvant to aid in plaque and calculus removal. This product is formulatedusing Aloe vera, green tea, and mint; however, studies on the toxic potential of this product have not been performed yet.The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of Tropiclean Fresh Breath Clean Teeth Gel product on hematologicaland biochemical profiles in dogs undergoing 90-day treatment with the product.Materials, Methods & Results: Per manufacturers recommendation, the product should be used daily for 30 consecutivedays, and subsequently, as maintenance at two to three times a week. In this study, 48 dogs with periodontal disease whoreceived prolonged daily treatment for 90 consecutive days underwent hematological and biochemical evaluation. Duringthe 90 days treatment duration, the animals were examined daily to identify the presence of adverse effects; and changesin halitosis were reported. At pre-treatment time-point, 5 mL of blood was collected via cephalic or jugular vein puncturein EDTA tubes for determining the complete blood count (CBC), and in tubes without EDTA for the urea, creatinine,and ALT levels; in addition, for comparison, blood was collected after 90 days treatment. At post-treatment time-point,the hematological and biochemical analyses showed significantly lower total leukocyte count as compared to that at pretreatment (P < 0.01); comprising lower neutrophil count as the cell type involved (P < 0.05). The other parameters showedno statistically significant differences, demonstrating an absence of the products effect in terms of alteration of theseprofiles...(AU)

Frequency and factors associated with Theileria equi, Babesia caballi and Trypanosoma evansi in equids from Bahia (Northeast Brazil)

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the frequency and factors associated to Babesia caballi, Theileria equi and Trypanosoma evansi in naturally infected equids from the northeast Brazil. Blood samples from 569 equids (528 horses, 8 mules, and 33 donkeys) were collected and tested for the presence of DNA of each of these protozoan parasites by PCR. Generalized linear models were used to evaluate risk factors associated with the infection. The frequency of T. equi infection was 83.5% (475/569) - 84.3% in horses, and 73.2% in donkeys and mules. The results of the final model indicated that age (senior group) and animal species (mule and donkey group) were protective factors against this pathogen. The frequency of B. caballi infection was 24.3% (138/569) - 23.5% in horses and 34.1% in donkeys and mules. Age (adult and senior group) was considered a protective factor against B. caballi infection whereas animal species (donkey and mule group) were considered a risk factor for the infection. Trypanosoma evansi infection was not detected in any of animals. Our results suggest that equids from the area studied may be infected earlier in life with the etiological agents of equine piroplasmosis and become asymptomatic carriers.

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivos conhecer a frequência e os fatores associados à infecção por Babesia caballi, Theileria equi e Trypanosoma evansi em equinos naturalmente infectados do nordeste do Brasil. Amostras de sangue de 569 equídeos (528 equinos, 8 muares e 33 asininos) foram coletadas e testadas para a presença do DNA destes parasitos através da PCR. Modelos lineares generalizados foram utilizados na avaliação dos fatores associados às infecções. A frequência de infecção por T. equi foi de 83,5% (475/569) -84,3% (445/528) em eqüinos e 73,2% (30/41) em asininos e muares. Os resultados do modelo final indicam idade (sênior) e espécie (muar e asinina) como possíveis fatores de proteção para este patógeno. A frequência de infecção por B. caballi foi de 24,3% (138/569) - 23,5% (124/528) em eqüinos e 34,1% (14/41) em asininos e muares. As faixas etárias (adulto e sênior) foram identificadas como possíveis fatores de proteção, e a espécie (asinina e muar) como risco para ocorrência de infecção por B. caballi. Infecções por Trypanosoma evansi não foram detectadas. Estes resultados indicam que os equídeos na região estudada se infectam precocemente com agentes da piroplasmose equina tornando-se portadores assintomáticos.

Feline idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Background: Feline idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is an irreversible disease that is rarely reported in veterinary clinicalroutine, with this case as the second reported in Brazil. This study aimed to describe a case of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosisin a domestic cat.Case: A 10-year-old female cat with a history of respiratory distress was treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the StateUniversity of Santa Cruz (HV-UESC). The first signs were observed three months before clinical care, characterized mainlyby dyspnea that was more pronounced during nighttime. There was no history of previous illnesses or prior drug use. Thecat lived with two other domiciled cats, did not have access to the street, and had restricted access to the terrace of thebuilding, from where other animals could have possibly entered. Physical examination showed a poor body condition witha temperature of 37°C and dehydration estimated at 9%.The animal was observed to remain in an orthopedic position, withtachypnea (109 mvm), wheezing through the mouth, and severe expiratory dyspnea. Pulmonary auscultation detected finediscontinuous adventitious noises. There were no changes in the cardiac function in terms of rhythm, frequency, or auscultation. Oxygen therapy and slow administration of 0.9% NaCl solution were performed; moreover, blood was collectedfor complete blood count, in which no abnormalities were observed. Thoracic radiography was performed on the cat, andthe results showed a mixed pulmonary pattern characterized by bronchiectasis, thickening of the bronchiolar wall, and anunstructured interstitial pattern throughout the pulmonary area. Shortly after the beginning of the clinical care, the animaldied due to respiratory arrest and was necropsied. The main macroscopic finding was pulmonary edema. Lung sampleswere subjected to microscopic evaluation, which revealed extensive multifocal areas of alveolar...

Feline idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Background: Feline idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is an irreversible disease that is rarely reported in veterinary clinicalroutine, with this case as the second reported in Brazil. This study aimed to describe a case of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosisin a domestic cat.Case: A 10-year-old female cat with a history of respiratory distress was treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the StateUniversity of Santa Cruz (HV-UESC). The first signs were observed three months before clinical care, characterized mainlyby dyspnea that was more pronounced during nighttime. There was no history of previous illnesses or prior drug use. Thecat lived with two other domiciled cats, did not have access to the street, and had restricted access to the terrace of thebuilding, from where other animals could have possibly entered. Physical examination showed a poor body condition witha temperature of 37°C and dehydration estimated at 9%.The animal was observed to remain in an orthopedic position, withtachypnea (109 mvm), wheezing through the mouth, and severe expiratory dyspnea. Pulmonary auscultation detected finediscontinuous adventitious noises. There were no changes in the cardiac function in terms of rhythm, frequency, or auscultation. Oxygen therapy and slow administration of 0.9% NaCl solution were performed; moreover, blood was collectedfor complete blood count, in which no abnormalities were observed. Thoracic radiography was performed on the cat, andthe results showed a mixed pulmonary pattern characterized by bronchiectasis, thickening of the bronchiolar wall, and anunstructured interstitial pattern throughout the pulmonary area. Shortly after the beginning of the clinical care, the animaldied due to respiratory arrest and was necropsied. The main macroscopic finding was pulmonary edema. Lung sampleswere subjected to microscopic evaluation, which revealed extensive multifocal areas of alveolar...(AU)

Factors associated with the distribution of natural Toxoplasma gondii infection among equids in Northeastern Brazil / Fatores associados à distribuição da infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em equídeos naturalmente infectados no Nordeste do Brasil

The aim of this study was to determine the frequency and factors associated with Toxoplasma gondii in naturally infected equids in northeastern Brazil. Serum samples from 569 equids (528 horses, 8 mules and 33 donkeys) were subjected to the indirect fluorescent antibody test. Generalized linear models were used to evaluate associated factors. Among the 569 animals sampled, 118 (30.6%) living in rural areas and 14 (26.42%) in urban areas were seropositive (p>0.05). Seropositive animals were observed on 95% of the farms and in all the municipalities. Donkeys/mules as the host, presence of domestic cats and rats on the farm, ingestion of lagoon water and goat rearing remained in the final model as factors associated with infection. Preventive measures such as avoiding the presence of domestic cats close to rearing areas, pastures and sources of water for the animals should be adopted. The wide-ranging distribution of positive animals also indicated that infection in other domestic animals and in humans, through the contaminated environment, was possible. It should be highlighted that there was the possibility that donkeys and mules would continue to have detectable titers for longer, thus explaining the prevalence found. Further studies are needed to confirm this possibility.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar a frequência e os fatores associados a Toxoplasma gondii em equídeos naturalmente infectados no Nordeste do Brasil. Amostras de soro de 569 equídeos (528 cavalos, 8 asnos e 33 muares) foram submetidas a reação de imunofluorescência indireta. Modelos lineares generalizados foram utilizados na avaliação dos fatores associados. Dos 569 animais amostrados, 118 (30,6%) soropositivos eram de área rural e 14 (26,42%) perteciam a áreas urbanas (p>0,05). Observaram-se animais soropositivos em 95% das fazendas e em todos os municípios. Asininos/muares como hospedeiro, presença de gatos domésticos e ratos na fazenda, ingestão de água de lagoa e criação de caprinos permaneceram no modelo final como fatores associados à infecção. Medidas de prevenção, como evitar a presença de gatos domésticos próximos aos locais de criação, de pastejo e fontes de água dos animais, devem ser adotadas. A ampla distribuição de animais positivos sinaliza a possibilidade de infecção também em outros animais domésticos, bem como em humanos pelo ambiente contaminado. Ressalta-se a possibilidade de que asininos e muares permaneçam com títulos detectáveis por mais tempo, justificando a prevalência encontrada, sendo necessários estudos para confirmar este possibilidade.(AU)

Antibody occurrence of Anti-Toxoplasma gondii, Leishmania sp. and Ehrlichia canis in dogs in Bahia State / Ocorrência de anticorpos Anti-Toxoplasma gondii, Leishmania spp. e Ehrlichia canis em cães do Estado da Bahia

Toxoplasmosis, leishmaniasis, and ehrlichiosis are zoonoses that have cosmopolitan distribution and cause important clinical changes in dogs and humans. Dogs are important in the epidemiology and transmission of Leishmania infantum and Ehrlichia canis and serve as indicators of environmental contamination by the transmission of Toxoplasma gondii. The aim of this study was to detect antibodies against T. gondii, Leishmania spp., and E. canis in dogs from Bahia and identify the risk factors associated with infections. Blood samples were collected from 353 dogs from several municipalities of Bahia and the sera were tested using reaction of indirect immunofluorescence (RIFI) for T. gondii and Leishmania spp. and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for E. canis. The data were tabulated and analyzed using EPI-INFO 7.1.5 program. Of 353 samples analyzed, 144 (40.8%) were positive for T. gondii (antibody titer 16-4,096) and 92 (26.1%) were seropositive for Leishmania spp. (antibody titer 40-160). The seropositivity for E. canis was the highest as compared to that of the other agents. Furthermore, 184 (52.1%) samples were positive for antibodies against E. canis. Sixteen (4.5%), 71 (20.1%), and 25 (7.1%) samples were co-infected with T. gondii and Leishmania spp., T. gondii and E. canis, and E. canis and Leishmania spp., respectively, while 20 (5.7%) dogs presented...

A toxoplasmose, a leishmaniose e a erliquiose são zoonoses que possuem distribuição cosmopolita e causam importantes alterações clínicas em cães e em seres humanos. Cães são importantes na epidemiologia e transmissão de Leishmania infantum e Ehrlichia canis, e podem ser indicadores de contaminação ambiental na transmissão de T. gondii. Objetivou-se com esse estudo detectar anticorpos IgG anti-Toxoplasma gondii, Leishmania spp. e Ehrlichia canis em cães do estado da Bahia, bem como identificar fatores de risco associados as infecções. Amostras de sangue de 353 cães foram coletadas em diversos municípios deste estado e os soros foram submetidos à reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI) para T. gondii e Leishmania spp. e ensaio imunoenzimático indireto (ELISA) para E. canis. Os dados foram tabulados e analisados utilizando-se o programa EPIINFO 7.1.5. Para o agente etiológico T. gondii, das 353 amostras coletadas, 144 (40,8%) foram positivas, com títulos de anticorpos variando de 16 a 4096. Para Leishmania spp., 92 (26,1%) amostras mostraram soropositividade, com títulos de anticorpos variando de 40 a 160. A soropositividade para E. canis foi a maior em relação aos outros agentes. Dos animais amostrados, 184 (52,1%) tiveram anticorpos anti-E. canis, no ELISA. Das 353 amostras analisadas, verificou-se co-soropositividade em 16 (4,5%) animais para T. gondii e...

Clinical, hematological and biochemical profiles of dogs with Leishmania infantum

Background: Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis is a zoonosis affecting dogs worldwide. Its epidemiological importance is observed in Brazil, wherein the largest number of cases originates in the Northeast Region of the country. The disease is caused by the etiologic agent Leishmania chagasi (= infantum) and transmitted by an invertebrate form of sand fly of the genus Lutzomia. Domestic dogs are one of the main reservoirs. The aim of this study was to use molecular analysis to diagnose dogs naturally infected with Leishmania spp. in the city of Jequié, State of Bahia, Brazil, and to describe the clinical signs, as well as the hematological and biochemical profiles associated with these cases.Materials, Methods & Results: In the present study, 198 dogs underwent physical examination and had blood samples collected for hematological, biochemical and PCR tests for Leishmania infantum. Two primers have been used for the molecular diagnostic technique (PCR): first, the ITS-1 specific to Leishmania species followed by the PCR-RFVL to identify the genus; and second, the primer pair RV1/RV2 specific to the Leishmania infantum species in all the samplesAmong the 198 samples collected, four animals tested positive for the Leishmania infantum via PCR, two of which were symptomatic and two asymptomatic. Among the symptomatic animals, animal one presented with diffuse alopecia, ulcerated lesions on the tip of the ears, ophthalmopathy, onychogryphosis, cachexia, anemia and neutrophilic leukocytosis, and animal two presented with alopecia, pustules, crusting, diffusely-spread erythema, anemia, hyperproteinemia, thrombocytopenia and azotemia. Among the two asymptomatic dogs, one animal had anemia, hyperproteinemia, thrombocytopenia, leukocytosis with neutrophilia, and azotemia; the other animal’s laboratory findings revealed hyperproteinemia and leukocytosis with neutrophilia.[...]

Clinical, hematological and biochemical profiles of dogs with Leishmania infantum

Background: Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis is a zoonosis affecting dogs worldwide. Its epidemiological importance is observed in Brazil, wherein the largest number of cases originates in the Northeast Region of the country. The disease is caused by the etiologic agent Leishmania chagasi (= infantum) and transmitted by an invertebrate form of sand fly of the genus Lutzomia. Domestic dogs are one of the main reservoirs. The aim of this study was to use molecular analysis to diagnose dogs naturally infected with Leishmania spp. in the city of Jequié, State of Bahia, Brazil, and to describe the clinical signs, as well as the hematological and biochemical profiles associated with these cases.Materials, Methods & Results: In the present study, 198 dogs underwent physical examination and had blood samples collected for hematological, biochemical and PCR tests for Leishmania infantum. Two primers have been used for the molecular diagnostic technique (PCR): first, the ITS-1 specific to Leishmania species followed by the PCR-RFVL to identify the genus; and second, the primer pair RV1/RV2 specific to the Leishmania infantum species in all the samplesAmong the 198 samples collected, four animals tested positive for the Leishmania infantum via PCR, two of which were symptomatic and two asymptomatic. Among the symptomatic animals, animal one presented with diffuse alopecia, ulcerated lesions on the tip of the ears, ophthalmopathy, onychogryphosis, cachexia, anemia and neutrophilic leukocytosis, and animal two presented with alopecia, pustules, crusting, diffusely-spread erythema, anemia, hyperproteinemia, thrombocytopenia and azotemia. Among the two asymptomatic dogs, one animal had anemia, hyperproteinemia, thrombocytopenia, leukocytosis with neutrophilia, and azotemia; the other animals laboratory findings revealed hyperproteinemia and leukocytosis with neutrophilia.[...](AU)

Antibody occurrence of Anti-Toxoplasma gondii, Leishmania sp. and Ehrlichia canis in dogs in Bahia State / Ocorrência de anticorpos Anti-Toxoplasma gondii, Leishmania spp. e Ehrlichia canis em cães do Estado da Bahia

Toxoplasmosis, leishmaniasis, and ehrlichiosis are zoonoses that have cosmopolitan distribution and cause important clinical changes in dogs and humans. Dogs are important in the epidemiology and transmission of Leishmania infantum and Ehrlichia canis and serve as indicators of environmental contamination by the transmission of Toxoplasma gondii. The aim of this study was to detect antibodies against T. gondii, Leishmania spp., and E. canis in dogs from Bahia and identify the risk factors associated with infections. Blood samples were collected from 353 dogs from several municipalities of Bahia and the sera were tested using reaction of indirect immunofluorescence (RIFI) for T. gondii and Leishmania spp. and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for E. canis. The data were tabulated and analyzed using EPI-INFO 7.1.5 program. Of 353 samples analyzed, 144 (40.8%) were positive for T. gondii (antibody titer 16-4,096) and 92 (26.1%) were seropositive for Leishmania spp. (antibody titer 40-160). The seropositivity for E. canis was the highest as compared to that of the other agents. Furthermore, 184 (52.1%) samples were positive for antibodies against E. canis. Sixteen (4.5%), 71 (20.1%), and 25 (7.1%) samples were co-infected with T. gondii and Leishmania spp., T. gondii and E. canis, and E. canis and Leishmania spp., respectively, while 20 (5.7%) dogs presented...(AU)

A toxoplasmose, a leishmaniose e a erliquiose são zoonoses que possuem distribuição cosmopolita e causam importantes alterações clínicas em cães e em seres humanos. Cães são importantes na epidemiologia e transmissão de Leishmania infantum e Ehrlichia canis, e podem ser indicadores de contaminação ambiental na transmissão de T. gondii. Objetivou-se com esse estudo detectar anticorpos IgG anti-Toxoplasma gondii, Leishmania spp. e Ehrlichia canis em cães do estado da Bahia, bem como identificar fatores de risco associados as infecções. Amostras de sangue de 353 cães foram coletadas em diversos municípios deste estado e os soros foram submetidos à reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI) para T. gondii e Leishmania spp. e ensaio imunoenzimático indireto (ELISA) para E. canis. Os dados foram tabulados e analisados utilizando-se o programa EPIINFO 7.1.5. Para o agente etiológico T. gondii, das 353 amostras coletadas, 144 (40,8%) foram positivas, com títulos de anticorpos variando de 16 a 4096. Para Leishmania spp., 92 (26,1%) amostras mostraram soropositividade, com títulos de anticorpos variando de 40 a 160. A soropositividade para E. canis foi a maior em relação aos outros agentes. Dos animais amostrados, 184 (52,1%) tiveram anticorpos anti-E. canis, no ELISA. Das 353 amostras analisadas, verificou-se co-soropositividade em 16 (4,5%) animais para T. gondii e...(AU)

Hemotropic mycoplasmas in naturally infected cats in Northeastern Brazil / Micoplasmas hemotróficos em gatos naturalmente infectados no Nordeste do Brasil

This study aimed to determine the prevalence, factors associated, laboratory findings (with and without coinfection by retroviruses) among naturally infected cats by hemoplasmas in northeastern Brazil. For convenience, 200 domesticated and healthy cats were selected. Blood samples were taken to perform complete blood counts, serum biochemical, immunochromatography tests and nPCR for FIV and FeLV, and PCR for hemoplasma recognition. An interview was conducted to determine the factors associated with hemoplasmas. A total of 71/200 (35.5%) cats were positive for at least one hemoplasma species. Isolated infections were observed in 12,5% for 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum', 12% for Mycoplasma haemofelis and 3% for 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis'. Regarding copositivity, 2% of the animals were positive for M. haemofelis and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum', 1.5% for M. haemofelis and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis', and 4.5% for 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum' and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis'. No clinical and laboratory changes were observed in the animals that were concomitantly positive for retroviruses and hemoplasmas. Periurban region cats were more likely to be infected by M. haemofelis, while contact with other cats and infection by 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis' were associated with 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum'. This study indicates that infection by hemoplasmas is a common find in cats from northeastern Brazil.(AU)

Objetivou-se com este estudo determinar a prevalência, fatores associados, achados laboratoriais (com e sem coinfecção com retrovírus) em gatos naturalmente infectados por hemoplasmas no Nordeste do Brasil. Selecionou-se, por conveniência, 200 gatos domiciliados, hígidos, sendo colhidas amostras de sangue para realização do hemograma, bioquímica sérica, imunocromatografia e nested-PCR para FIV e FeLV, e PCR para identificação dos hemoplasmas. Uma entrevista foi realizada para determinação dos fatores associados aos hemoplasmas. A frequência de positividade foi de 35,5% (71/200). Infecções isoladas foram observadas em 12,5% dos animais para 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum', 12% para Mycoplasma haemofelis e 3% para 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis'. Quanto a co-positividades, 2% dos animais foram positivos para M. haemofelis e 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum', 1,5% foram positivos para M. haemofelis e 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis', e 4,5% foram positivos para 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum' e 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis'. Não foram observadas alterações clínicas ou laboratoriais nos animais positivos para retrovírus e hemoplasmas, concomitantemente. A região periurbana foi identificada como fator de risco associado a M. haemofelis. Enquanto o contato com outros gatos e a infecção por 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis' foi associado à 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum'. Este estudo indica que a presença dos agentes da micoplasmose hemotrópica felina é comum no Nordeste brasileiro.(AU)

Brucella ovis in sheep: seropositivity and risk factors / Brucella ovis em ovinos: soropositividade e fatores de risco

Seroepidemiological study of Brucella ovis in sheep from Sergipe State was carried out to determine the seropositivity and infection distribution in rural properties and possible factors associated with infection. A total of 54 sheep properties were studied and 932 blood serum samples from animals older than six months were collected in the three regions of Sergipe State. All sera samples were examined by agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID). According to the serological tests, 46.30% (25/54) of the properties had serologic evidence of infection by B. ovis, with 4.40% of positive animals (41/932). Presence of sheep handler (OR=2.31) and properties with an area bigger than 50 ha (OR=1.98) were observed as factors associated with B. ovis infection, whereas the use of stall (OR=0.37) worked as a protective factor (OR=0.40). Thus, the presence of antibodies against B. ovis in Sergipe State was confirmed, and it highlights the importance of complementary studies to determine the specific health measures in herds to prevent this disease.

Realizou-se um levantamento sorológico de Brucella ovis em ovinos do Estado de Sergipe, com o objetivo de determinar a positividade e a distribuição da infecção em propriedades rurais e analisar os possíveis fatores associados à infecção. Foram analisadas 54 propriedades criadoras de ovinos, das quais foram colhidas 932 amostras de soro sanguíneo de animais com idade superior a seis meses, nas três regiões do Estado. Todos os soros foram examinados por Imunodifusão em Gel de Agar (IDGA). De acordo com o teste realizado, 46,30% (25/54) das propriedades apresentaram evidência sorológica de infecção por B. ovis, com uma positividade de 4,40% (41/932) dos animais. Como fatores associados à infecção por B. ovis, observaram-se a presença de tratador de ovinos (OR=2,31) e propriedades com área superior a 50 ha (OR=1,98) e como fator de proteção, a utilização de cabanha (OR=0,37). Assim, verificou-se a presença de anticorpos contra Brucella ovis nos ovinos do Estado e salienta-se a importância de estudos complementares para determinação de medidas sanitárias específicas para prevenir os rebanhos desta enfermidade.

Brucella ovis in sheep: seropositivity and risk factors / Brucella ovis em ovinos: soropositividade e fatores de risco

Seroepidemiological study of Brucella ovis in sheep from Sergipe State was carried out to determine the seropositivity and infection distribution in rural properties and possible factors associated with infection. A total of 54 sheep properties were studied and 932 blood serum samples from animals older than six months were collected in the three regions of Sergipe State. All sera samples were examined by agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID). According to the serological tests, 46.30% (25/54) of the properties had serologic evidence of infection by B. ovis, with 4.40% of positive animals (41/932). Presence of sheep handler (OR=2.31) and properties with an area bigger than 50 ha (OR=1.98) were observed as factors associated with B. ovis infection, whereas the use of stall (OR=0.37) worked as a protective factor (OR=0.40). Thus, the presence of antibodies against B. ovis in Sergipe State was confirmed, and it highlights the importance of complementary studies to determine the specific health measures in herds to prevent this disease.(AU)

Realizou-se um levantamento sorológico de Brucella ovis em ovinos do Estado de Sergipe, com o objetivo de determinar a positividade e a distribuição da infecção em propriedades rurais e analisar os possíveis fatores associados à infecção. Foram analisadas 54 propriedades criadoras de ovinos, das quais foram colhidas 932 amostras de soro sanguíneo de animais com idade superior a seis meses, nas três regiões do Estado. Todos os soros foram examinados por Imunodifusão em Gel de Agar (IDGA). De acordo com o teste realizado, 46,30% (25/54) das propriedades apresentaram evidência sorológica de infecção por B. ovis, com uma positividade de 4,40% (41/932) dos animais. Como fatores associados à infecção por B. ovis, observaram-se a presença de tratador de ovinos (OR=2,31) e propriedades com área superior a 50 ha (OR=1,98) e como fator de proteção, a utilização de cabanha (OR=0,37). Assim, verificou-se a presença de anticorpos contra Brucella ovis nos ovinos do Estado e salienta-se a importância de estudos complementares para determinação de medidas sanitárias específicas para prevenir os rebanhos desta enfermidade.(AU)

Brucella ovis EM OVINOS: SOROPOSITIVIDADE E FATORES DE RISCO

Abstract Seroepidemiological study of Brucella ovis in sheep from Sergipe State was carried out to determine the seropositivity and infection distribution in rural properties and possible factors associated with infection. A total of 54 sheep properties were studied and 932 blood serum samples from animals older than six months were collected in the three regions of Sergipe State. All sera samples were examined by agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID). According to the serological tests, 46.30% (25/54) of the properties had serologic evidence of infection by B. ovis, with 4.40% of positive animals (41/932). Presence of sheep handler (OR=2.31) and properties with an area bigger than 50 ha (OR=1.98) were observed as factors associated with B. ovis infection, whereas the use of stall (OR=0.37) worked as a protective factor (OR=0.40). Thus, the presence of antibodies against B. ovis in Sergipe State was confirmed, and it highlights the importance of complementary studies to determine the specific health measures in herds to prevent this disease.

Resumo Realizou-se um levantamento sorológico de Brucella ovis em ovinos do Estado de Sergipe, com o objetivo de determinar a positividade e a distribuição da infecção em propriedades rurais e analisar os possíveis fatores associados à infecção. Foram analisadas 54 propriedades criadoras de ovinos, das quais foram colhidas 932 amostras de soro sanguíneo de animais com idade superior a seis meses, nas três regiões do Estado. Todos os soros foram examinados por Imunodifusão em Gel de Agar (IDGA). De acordo com o teste realizado, 46,30% (25/54) das propriedades apresentaram evidência sorológica de infecção por B. ovis, com uma positividade de 4,40% (41/932) dos animais. Como fatores associados à infecção por B. ovis, observaram-se a presença de tratador de ovinos (OR=2,31) e propriedades com área superior a 50 ha (OR=1,98) e como fator de proteção, a utilização de cabanha (OR=0,37). Assim, verificou-se a presença de anticorpos contra Brucella ovis nos ovinos do Estado e salienta-se a importância de estudos complementares para determinação de medidas sanitárias específicas para prevenir os rebanhos desta enfermidade.

Babesia spp. and Ehrlichia chaffeensis infection in dogs from southeastern Bahia, Brazil

Background: Tickborne diseases are frequent in tropical countries such as Brazil. Protozoa of the Babesia genus and bacteria of the Ehrlichia genus spread throughout the country with high prevalences in urban and rural areas, causing clinical or subclinical diseases in dogs. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of infection from Babesia spp. and Ehrlichia chaffeensis in the dog population in the municipality of Ituberá, Bahia, Brazil, and to verify the risk factors associated with the infections. Materials, Methods & Results: A cross-sectional study was conducted, consisting of the following procedures: clinical examination and blood samples collection from 380 dogs and application of a structure questionnaire to dog owners to collect epidemiological data. All dogs were evaluated for the presence of ticks and clinical signs associated with the infections. Blood samples were collected and tested for Babesia spp. through capillary blood smears, indirect immunofluorescence assays (IFAT), and polymerase chain reaction (PCR); all the samples were also tested for E. chaffeensis through nested PCR. Intra-erythrocyte piroplasms were visualized in the blood smears of two animals (2/380; 0.5%) in the cytology exams. Anti-B. canis antibodies were detected in 140/380 (36.8%) dogs, at 1:40 dilution. By PCR, 147/380 (38.7%) dogs tested positive for infection by Babesia sp., but no animal was infected by E. chaffeensis. Only 115/380 dogs (30.3%) were infested by ticks. In total, 223/380 dogs (58.7%) were found infected by Babesia spp. No clinical signs were it found to be significant for the infection. The infected (Ht = 40%) and uninfected dogs’ (Ht = 39%) hematocrit averages were not found to significantly differ (P = 0.47). No hematological changes were found to be significant for the disease. The evaluated variables sex, habitat (urban or rural) […]

Babesia spp. and Ehrlichia chaffeensis infection in dogs from southeastern Bahia, Brazil

Background: Tickborne diseases are frequent in tropical countries such as Brazil. Protozoa of the Babesia genus and bacteria of the Ehrlichia genus spread throughout the country with high prevalences in urban and rural areas, causing clinical or subclinical diseases in dogs. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of infection from Babesia spp. and Ehrlichia chaffeensis in the dog population in the municipality of Ituberá, Bahia, Brazil, and to verify the risk factors associated with the infections. Materials, Methods & Results: A cross-sectional study was conducted, consisting of the following procedures: clinical examination and blood samples collection from 380 dogs and application of a structure questionnaire to dog owners to collect epidemiological data. All dogs were evaluated for the presence of ticks and clinical signs associated with the infections. Blood samples were collected and tested for Babesia spp. through capillary blood smears, indirect immunofluorescence assays (IFAT), and polymerase chain reaction (PCR); all the samples were also tested for E. chaffeensis through nested PCR. Intra-erythrocyte piroplasms were visualized in the blood smears of two animals (2/380; 0.5%) in the cytology exams. Anti-B. canis antibodies were detected in 140/380 (36.8%) dogs, at 1:40 dilution. By PCR, 147/380 (38.7%) dogs tested positive for infection by Babesia sp., but no animal was infected by E. chaffeensis. Only 115/380 dogs (30.3%) were infested by ticks. In total, 223/380 dogs (58.7%) were found infected by Babesia spp. No clinical signs were it found to be significant for the infection. The infected (Ht = 40%) and uninfected dogs (Ht = 39%) hematocrit averages were not found to significantly differ (P = 0.47). No hematological changes were found to be significant for the disease. The evaluated variables sex, habitat (urban or rural) […](AU)

Avaliação clínica da analgesia pós-operatória proporcionada pelo cetoprofeno associado à morfina pela via intravenosa ou epidural em cadelas submetidas à ovariosalpingohisterectomia / Clinical evaluation of postoperative analgesia provided by ketoprofen associated with intravenous or epidural morphine in bitches undergoing ovariosalpingohysterectomy

A analgesia multimodal refere-se à prática de associar várias classes de analgésicos ou técnicas para atuar em diferentes pontos ao longo da via da dor. Objetivou-se avaliar clinicamente a qualidade da analgesia pós-operatória promovida pelo cetoprofeno, associado ou não à morfina pela via intravenosa ou epidural, em cadelas submetidas à ovariosalpingohisterectomia (OSH). Quarenta cadelas hígidas, pesando 10,7±6,0kg, tranquilizadas com acepromazina (0,05mg.kg-1.iv), induzidas com propofol (5mg. kg-1.iv) e mantidas sob anestesia inalatória com isoflurano, foram distribuídas em quatro grupos de 10 animais cada. Em Miv e CMiv as cadelas receberam após estabilização da anestesia inalatória, 0,2mg. kg-1 de morfina pela via intravenosa, diluídos em 10ml de salina; enquanto que os animais de Mep e CMep receberam 0,1mg.kg-1 de morfina pela via epidural. O cetoprofeno foi administrado na dose 2,0mg.kg-1.im, nos grupos CMiv e CMep, 30 minutos após a medicação pré-anestésica. Mensuraram-se as frequências cardíaca (FC) e respiratória (f), pressão arterial sistólica (PAS), e temperatura retal (T). O grau de analgesia foi avaliado pelo método cego nas primeiras seis horas após a cirurgia, através de escalas de dor descritivas e escalas compostas por parâmetros fisiológicos e comportamentais. A estatística foi realizada mediante teste de Tukey-Kramer e análise não paramétrica de Kruskal-Walli...(AU)

Multimodal analgesia refers to the practice of combining multiple analgesic drug classes or techniques to target different points along the pain pathway. The objective of this work was to evaluate clinically if ketoprofen associated or not with intravenous or epidural morphine provided adequate postoperative analgesia in bitches undergoing ovariosalpingohysterectomy (OSH). Forty healthy female dogs, weighing 10.7±6.0 kg, sedated with acepromazine (0.05mg kg 1.iv), induced with propofol (5 mg.kg-1. iv) and maintained with isoflurane anesthesia, were distributed into four groups of 10 animals each. After stabilization of inhalation anesthesia, the bitches in Miv and CMiv groups received 0.2 mg.kg-1 of morphine intravenously diluted in 10ml of saline; whereas Mep and CMep groups received 0.1mg.kg-1 of epidural morphine. Thirty minutes after premedication, 2.0mg.kg-1.im of ketoprofen was administered in groups CMiv and CMep. Heart and respiratory rate, systolic blood pressure, and rectal temperature were measured. The degree of analgesia was assessed by a blind study in the following 6 hours after surgery, using a descriptive scale and a scale composed by physiologic and behavioral parameters. An statistical analysis was performed using the Tukey-Kramer test and nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis test, with statistical significance of 5%. There was no important difference between the...(AU)