Effect of dosage of orally administered 17α-methyltestosterone on sex reversion of the yellowtail tetra Astyanax lacustris (Lütken, 1875)

The females of yellowtail tetra (Astyanax lacustris), known as the freshwater sardine, are approximately 1.33 times larger than males, and thus, all-female monosex culture would increase production and reduce size variability. The present work aimed to identify the optimal dose of 17α-methyltestosterone (MT) to be used in the masculinization of A. lacustris for indirect sex reversal. Three different concentrations of MT (20, 40, and 60 mg/kg of feed in the diet) were fed to the fry for 30 days. Thirty adult individuals from each treatment, including the control (0 mg MT/kg), were evaluated for gonadal development, morphological and histological sexual identification, zootechnical performance, and the possible genotoxic effect caused by prolonged exposure to MT. MT significantly (P<0.01) affected the differentiation of the gonads, with the presence of possible inhibitory effects in all treatments. Intersex individuals were present in the 20 and 60 mg MT/kg treatments. All treatments were able to masculinize A. lacustris and the treatment with the lowest hormone concentration produced the highest percentage of males 76.7%, while the control had 46.7% males. The presence of erythrocyte nuclear alterations indicated a possible cytotoxic effect of MT in treatments 40 and 60 mg MT/kg, however, the use of the hormone did not affect the growth and the survival of the individuals. Thus, the use of MT is a viable option for obtaining neomales as a first step into the production of all-female progenies.(AU)

Plasmocitoma extramedular de terceira pálpebra em gato / Extramedullary plasmacytoma of the third eyelid in a cat

Background: Extramedullary plasmacytoma is a neoplasm originating from plasmacytes with benign behavior, althoughit can present malignant characteristics such as local invasion and metastases in some cases. Primary extramedullary plasmacytoma in the third eyelid is rare in humans and animals and has not yet been described in cats. Thus, the goal of thepresent study is to describe the cytological and histopathological findings of an extramedullary plasmacytoma in a cat’sthird eyelid.Case: A 5-year-old female feline patient with a history of ocular alteration for approximately 30 days was referred tothe ophthalmology service. Upon ophthalmic examination of the left eye, an increase in volume with tissue proliferationwas identified in the third eyelid’s conjunctiva. A collection of material for cytopathological examination was performed.Numerous plasmocytes and atypical lymphocytes with anisocytosis and anisokaryosis were observed, with a possible neoplastic injury being suggested and referred to the patient for surgical removal of the third eyelid. In the histopathologicalanalysis, it was possible to observe several plasma cells and vascular neoformation along the entire conjunctive marginbelow the epithelium. The glands, serous and mucous, present in the fragment, revealed areas of intervening plasmacyticinfiltrate and a large area close to the hyaline cartilage containing intense plasmacytic inflammatory infiltrate with rareneutrophils and macrophages. There was also a structural breakdown of glandular components and lymphocyte cells withmitosis figures and discrete cellular pleomorphism.Discussion: Plasmacytoma is a rare neoplasm in both dogs and cats. The anatomical regions most frequently affected arethe digits, lips, and pinna. Concerning the 3rd eyelid tumor involvement, numerous...

Plasmocitoma extramedular de terceira pálpebra em gato / Extramedullary plasmacytoma of the third eyelid in a cat

Background: Extramedullary plasmacytoma is a neoplasm originating from plasmacytes with benign behavior, althoughit can present malignant characteristics such as local invasion and metastases in some cases. Primary extramedullary plasmacytoma in the third eyelid is rare in humans and animals and has not yet been described in cats. Thus, the goal of thepresent study is to describe the cytological and histopathological findings of an extramedullary plasmacytoma in a catsthird eyelid.Case: A 5-year-old female feline patient with a history of ocular alteration for approximately 30 days was referred tothe ophthalmology service. Upon ophthalmic examination of the left eye, an increase in volume with tissue proliferationwas identified in the third eyelids conjunctiva. A collection of material for cytopathological examination was performed.Numerous plasmocytes and atypical lymphocytes with anisocytosis and anisokaryosis were observed, with a possible neoplastic injury being suggested and referred to the patient for surgical removal of the third eyelid. In the histopathologicalanalysis, it was possible to observe several plasma cells and vascular neoformation along the entire conjunctive marginbelow the epithelium. The glands, serous and mucous, present in the fragment, revealed areas of intervening plasmacyticinfiltrate and a large area close to the hyaline cartilage containing intense plasmacytic inflammatory infiltrate with rareneutrophils and macrophages. There was also a structural breakdown of glandular components and lymphocyte cells withmitosis figures and discrete cellular pleomorphism.Discussion: Plasmacytoma is a rare neoplasm in both dogs and cats. The anatomical regions most frequently affected arethe digits, lips, and pinna. Concerning the 3rd eyelid tumor involvement, numerous...(AU)

Quimiodectoma em cão / Chemodectoma in a dog

Background: The chemodectoma is a rare neoplasm that originates from chemoreceptors located mainly in the aortic body,and carotid body and sinus, and responsible for detecting variations in blood pH, oxygen pressure and carbon dioxide. Dogsof brachiocephalic breeds and aged between 7 and 15 years have greater propensity. A neoplasm involves infiltrative growthin the vessels at the heart base, which leads to Congestive Heart Failure (CHF). The definitive diagnosis is performed byhistopathological and/or immunohistochemical examination. The aim was to report a case of chemiodectoma in a dog,showing the disease’s clinical characteristics.Case: A 13-year-old male undefined breed dog was examinated in the medical clinic of small animal of Veterinary Hospital,Federal Rural University of Pernambuco (UFRPE) with respiratory effort, hyporexia, and edema in face, cervical, ventralthorax and thoracic limbs, with thirty days evoluted. About physical examination, we observed cachexia, orthopneic position, cyanosis and edema with a positive Godet sign, as well as 8% dehydration degree. Thoracic auscultation presentedmixed dyspnea and muffled heart sounds. Chest radiography detected an radiopacity increase in pulmonary section andmetastatic neoplastic process associated with pleural and pericardial effusion. Fluid therapy with lactated ringer and posteriorthoracentesis in the right hemithorax region was performed for greater respiratory comfort for the patient. Hematologicalcount and biochemical profiles stated normochromic normocytic anemia, relative and absolute lymphopenia, thrombocytopenia, as well as increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). The patient diedafter 12 hours when was submitted to necroscopic examination and histopathological evaluation. An infiltrative tumor ofcardiac base was observed invading the light of the right atrium, obstructing the venous return, as well as a large thrombus...

Quimiodectoma em cão / Chemodectoma in a dog

Background: The chemodectoma is a rare neoplasm that originates from chemoreceptors located mainly in the aortic body,and carotid body and sinus, and responsible for detecting variations in blood pH, oxygen pressure and carbon dioxide. Dogsof brachiocephalic breeds and aged between 7 and 15 years have greater propensity. A neoplasm involves infiltrative growthin the vessels at the heart base, which leads to Congestive Heart Failure (CHF). The definitive diagnosis is performed byhistopathological and/or immunohistochemical examination. The aim was to report a case of chemiodectoma in a dog,showing the diseases clinical characteristics.Case: A 13-year-old male undefined breed dog was examinated in the medical clinic of small animal of Veterinary Hospital,Federal Rural University of Pernambuco (UFRPE) with respiratory effort, hyporexia, and edema in face, cervical, ventralthorax and thoracic limbs, with thirty days evoluted. About physical examination, we observed cachexia, orthopneic position, cyanosis and edema with a positive Godet sign, as well as 8% dehydration degree. Thoracic auscultation presentedmixed dyspnea and muffled heart sounds. Chest radiography detected an radiopacity increase in pulmonary section andmetastatic neoplastic process associated with pleural and pericardial effusion. Fluid therapy with lactated ringer and posteriorthoracentesis in the right hemithorax region was performed for greater respiratory comfort for the patient. Hematologicalcount and biochemical profiles stated normochromic normocytic anemia, relative and absolute lymphopenia, thrombocytopenia, as well as increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). The patient diedafter 12 hours when was submitted to necroscopic examination and histopathological evaluation. An infiltrative tumor ofcardiac base was observed invading the light of the right atrium, obstructing the venous return, as well as a large thrombus...(AU)

First report of equine leishmaniosis in the state of Sergipe, Brazil

Background: Leishmaniasis is caused by an obligate intracellular protozoan of the genus Leishmania. In Brazil, the species Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum is reported as an etiological agent of leishmaniasis. Transmission of the disease occurs through bite of the sand fly mosquitoes Lutzomyia longipalpis and Lutzomyia cruzi, present in several regions of Brazil, including the state of Sergipe, where they are considered endemic. Although few cases have been reported in other states of Brazil, no case of cutaneous leishmaniasis in horses has been reported in Sergipe. The objective of this study was to report a case of cutaneous leishmaniasis in a horse in the municipality of Itaporanga d’Ajuda, Sergipe, Brazil. Case: A 2-year-old female quarter-horse was examined by a private veterinarian due to the presence of a nodular lesion on the mucocutaneous region of the lips. Macroscopically, the nodule was alopecic with depigmented areas, measuring approximately 1.0 cm in diameter, and there was a focal ulcer in the region of the labial commissure. Excisional biopsy was performed as follows; the material obtained was fixed in 10% buffered formalin and sent for histopathological examination. Further, it was subjected to routine histological processing by embedment in paraffin and hematoxylin-eosin staining. Microscopically, there were intense multifocal to coalescent lymphohistioplasmocytic infiltrates with epithelioid macrophages and multinucleated giant cells, both containing amastigote forms comparable with Leishmania spp. Morphological diagnosis was defined as extensive multifocal to coalescent chronic granulomatous dermatitis with intracytoplasmic amastigote forms. Furthermore, for positive controls, immunohistochemical examination was performed using serum from dogs naturally infected with L. (L.) infantum, which resulted in a strongly positive immunostaining of innumerable intracytoplasmic amastigote structures...

First report of equine leishmaniosis in the state of Sergipe, Brazil

Background: Leishmaniasis is caused by an obligate intracellular protozoan of the genus Leishmania. In Brazil, the species Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum is reported as an etiological agent of leishmaniasis. Transmission of the disease occurs through bite of the sand fly mosquitoes Lutzomyia longipalpis and Lutzomyia cruzi, present in several regions of Brazil, including the state of Sergipe, where they are considered endemic. Although few cases have been reported in other states of Brazil, no case of cutaneous leishmaniasis in horses has been reported in Sergipe. The objective of this study was to report a case of cutaneous leishmaniasis in a horse in the municipality of Itaporanga dAjuda, Sergipe, Brazil. Case: A 2-year-old female quarter-horse was examined by a private veterinarian due to the presence of a nodular lesion on the mucocutaneous region of the lips. Macroscopically, the nodule was alopecic with depigmented areas, measuring approximately 1.0 cm in diameter, and there was a focal ulcer in the region of the labial commissure. Excisional biopsy was performed as follows; the material obtained was fixed in 10% buffered formalin and sent for histopathological examination. Further, it was subjected to routine histological processing by embedment in paraffin and hematoxylin-eosin staining. Microscopically, there were intense multifocal to coalescent lymphohistioplasmocytic infiltrates with epithelioid macrophages and multinucleated giant cells, both containing amastigote forms comparable with Leishmania spp. Morphological diagnosis was defined as extensive multifocal to coalescent chronic granulomatous dermatitis with intracytoplasmic amastigote forms. Furthermore, for positive controls, immunohistochemical examination was performed using serum from dogs naturally infected with L. (L.) infantum, which resulted in a strongly positive immunostaining of innumerable intracytoplasmic amastigote structures...(AU)

Ocorrência simultânea de hemangiossarcoma e mastocitoma de grau II em cão da raça Pitbull / Simultaneous occurrence of hemangiosarcoma and grade II mast cell tumor in a Pit Bull Terrier

Background: The incidence of cutaneous neoplasms in dogs is high and quite variable. Hemangiosarcoma (HSA) and mast celltumor (MCT) are commonly diagnosed neoplasms in isolation; however, reports of concomitant occurrence in a single patientare rare. HSA is a malignant mesenchymal neoplasm of endothelial origin; the spleen is the most commonly affected organ.MCT is a common neoplasm that may affect any region of the body, without predilection for sex, although some breeds haveshown higher incidence. This report describes a case of HSA and MCT in a Pit bull terrier.Case: A 5-year-old white male Pit bull was presented to the Small Animal Clinic of the Federal Rural University of Pernambucowith nodules in preputial region measuring 5.4 x 3.7 cm and an ulcerated nodule in the right lateral thoracic region measuring23.0 x 19.0 x 5.5 cm. The owner reported surgical excision of two previous nodules one year before the consultation, but neitherwere submitted for cytopathological or post-surgical histopathological examination. Two months after the procedure, the nodulesrecurred. Cytopathological examinations of preputial and lateral thoracic nodules were performed, with a suggestive diagnosisfor HSA and MCT, respectively. Due to the unfavorable prognosis and the weakness of the animal, euthanasia was elected.Necroscopic examination revealed an ideal body condition score (4/9), hypertrophy of right pre-scapular and axillary lymphnodes, red hepatization in the apical lobe of the right lung, with multiple, soft and pigmented nodules in the spleen, liver, pancreas and testis. Several tissue samples were collected, conditioned in 10% buffered formaldehyde solution, routinely processedfor histology, and stained with hematoxylin-eosin and toluidine blue. Microscopically, the lateral thoracic nodule consisted ofround cells in cordonal arrangement, with sparse basophilic and discretely granular cytoplasm...

Ocorrência simultânea de hemangiossarcoma e mastocitoma de grau II em cão da raça Pitbull / Simultaneous occurrence of hemangiosarcoma and grade II mast cell tumor in a Pit Bull Terrier

Background: The incidence of cutaneous neoplasms in dogs is high and quite variable. Hemangiosarcoma (HSA) and mast celltumor (MCT) are commonly diagnosed neoplasms in isolation; however, reports of concomitant occurrence in a single patientare rare. HSA is a malignant mesenchymal neoplasm of endothelial origin; the spleen is the most commonly affected organ.MCT is a common neoplasm that may affect any region of the body, without predilection for sex, although some breeds haveshown higher incidence. This report describes a case of HSA and MCT in a Pit bull terrier.Case: A 5-year-old white male Pit bull was presented to the Small Animal Clinic of the Federal Rural University of Pernambucowith nodules in preputial region measuring 5.4 x 3.7 cm and an ulcerated nodule in the right lateral thoracic region measuring23.0 x 19.0 x 5.5 cm. The owner reported surgical excision of two previous nodules one year before the consultation, but neitherwere submitted for cytopathological or post-surgical histopathological examination. Two months after the procedure, the nodulesrecurred. Cytopathological examinations of preputial and lateral thoracic nodules were performed, with a suggestive diagnosisfor HSA and MCT, respectively. Due to the unfavorable prognosis and the weakness of the animal, euthanasia was elected.Necroscopic examination revealed an ideal body condition score (4/9), hypertrophy of right pre-scapular and axillary lymphnodes, red hepatization in the apical lobe of the right lung, with multiple, soft and pigmented nodules in the spleen, liver, pancreas and testis. Several tissue samples were collected, conditioned in 10% buffered formaldehyde solution, routinely processedfor histology, and stained with hematoxylin-eosin and toluidine blue. Microscopically, the lateral thoracic nodule consisted ofround cells in cordonal arrangement, with sparse basophilic and discretely granular cytoplasm...(AU)

Melanoma em cabra leiteira / Melanoma in a dairy goat

Background: Skin neoplasms in goats, albeit less frequent than in equines and cattle, are no less important, given thatthe presence of melanoma is worrisome due to its local and metastatic aggressiveness, which leads to death, especially innortheastern Brazil, where ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels are high, being an important factor the development of thisneoplasia, especially in light-skinned animals. This report describes the clinical and pathological aspects, beyond the attempted surgical treatment a case of Saanen goat melanoma raised in Feira Nova, Pernambuco, Brazil.Case: A 4-year-old pregnant Saanen goat was treated at the AGA/UFRPE. The animal presented blackened fetid masseslocated on the lower lip and ventral region of the jaw that had grown for two months. In addition to the tumor, a physicalexamination revealed altered submandibular and left prescapular lymph nodes. Local anesthesia and sedation were applied and both neoplasms were excised. The goat was then medicated with anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drugs anddischarged. However, 45 days later, the goat returned with multiple nodules similar in appearance to the previous one andin a severe clinical condition, characterized by pale mucous membranes, dehydration, enophthalmia, bilateral nasal seroussecretion and enlargement of the lymph nodes mandibular, retro pharyngeal and right paratid, as well as slight respiratorysnores in the ventral portion of lungs and productive cough. Due to the unfavorable prognosis, the animal was euthanized.Macroscopic findings revealed multiple nodular, infiltrative and blackened lesions on the tongue, lung, kidneys and liver,enlarged and blackened lymph nodes, and sagittal section of the cervical spine identified a dark spot on the seventh thoracic vertebra. In the histological evaluation of necrotic lesions present in the skin, lung, liver and kidneys was observednodular...

Melanoma em cabra leiteira / Melanoma in a dairy goat

Background: Skin neoplasms in goats, albeit less frequent than in equines and cattle, are no less important, given thatthe presence of melanoma is worrisome due to its local and metastatic aggressiveness, which leads to death, especially innortheastern Brazil, where ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels are high, being an important factor the development of thisneoplasia, especially in light-skinned animals. This report describes the clinical and pathological aspects, beyond the attempted surgical treatment a case of Saanen goat melanoma raised in Feira Nova, Pernambuco, Brazil.Case: A 4-year-old pregnant Saanen goat was treated at the AGA/UFRPE. The animal presented blackened fetid masseslocated on the lower lip and ventral region of the jaw that had grown for two months. In addition to the tumor, a physicalexamination revealed altered submandibular and left prescapular lymph nodes. Local anesthesia and sedation were applied and both neoplasms were excised. The goat was then medicated with anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drugs anddischarged. However, 45 days later, the goat returned with multiple nodules similar in appearance to the previous one andin a severe clinical condition, characterized by pale mucous membranes, dehydration, enophthalmia, bilateral nasal seroussecretion and enlargement of the lymph nodes mandibular, retro pharyngeal and right paratid, as well as slight respiratorysnores in the ventral portion of lungs and productive cough. Due to the unfavorable prognosis, the animal was euthanized.Macroscopic findings revealed multiple nodular, infiltrative and blackened lesions on the tongue, lung, kidneys and liver,enlarged and blackened lymph nodes, and sagittal section of the cervical spine identified a dark spot on the seventh thoracic vertebra. In the histological evaluation of necrotic lesions present in the skin, lung, liver and kidneys was observednodular...(AU)

Carcinoma mamário com metástase pulmonar em tatu-peba (Eupharactus sexcinctus) / Breast carcinoma with pulmonary metastasis in armadillo (Eupharactus sexcinctus)

Background: Breast neoplasms are among the most common neoplastic conditions affecting domestic animals and are considered the most common type of cancer affecting women, bitches, and cats. However, there are few reports on breast neoplasms in wild animals, and there is no record of their occurrence in armadillos worldwide. Breast neoplasms are hormone-dependent neoplasms that often cause lymph node and pulmonary metastases. The diagnosis is based on the patients history, complete physical examination, and complementary tests. Here we report a case of mammary neoplasia with pulmonary metastasis in an armadillo (Euphractus sexcinctus).Case: A senile female armadillo was referred to us for treatment with a history of hyporexia and nodules in both breasts. Ultrasonographic examination revealed a hypoechogenic nodular lesion with a cross-section of approximately 1.3 × 1.4 cm and well-defined borders. The lesion had a circumscribed aspect in the left mammary gland. In the right mammary gland, there was a heterogeneous lesion with cystic formations and anechoic content. Cytopathological examination of the nodules was performed by fine needle aspiration cytology and revealed the presence of epithelial cells with ovoid and aberrant nuclei, anisocariasis, binucleation, coarse chromatin, and a high nucleus to cytoplasm ratio suggestive of carcinoma. The animal had a lean body score due to hyporexia that had evolved to anorexia and was undergoing supportive treatment. Nevertheless, the animal died two months after the cytologic diagnosis. A necropsy was performed. Cutting of the breast nodules revealed a hardened pale yellow material. The animal had pronounced pleural effusion, hemorrhage, and numerous pale yellow nodules of various sizes with firm consistency throughout the lung parenchyma. It also had hepatomegaly and splenomegaly.[...](AU)

Carcinoma mamário com metástase pulmonar em tatu-peba (Eupharactus sexcinctus) / Breast carcinoma with pulmonary metastasis in armadillo (Eupharactus sexcinctus)

Background: Breast neoplasms are among the most common neoplastic conditions affecting domestic animals and are considered the most common type of cancer affecting women, bitches, and cats. However, there are few reports on breast neoplasms in wild animals, and there is no record of their occurrence in armadillos worldwide. Breast neoplasms are hormone-dependent neoplasms that often cause lymph node and pulmonary metastases. The diagnosis is based on the patient’s history, complete physical examination, and complementary tests. Here we report a case of mammary neoplasia with pulmonary metastasis in an armadillo (Euphractus sexcinctus).Case: A senile female armadillo was referred to us for treatment with a history of hyporexia and nodules in both breasts. Ultrasonographic examination revealed a hypoechogenic nodular lesion with a cross-section of approximately 1.3 × 1.4 cm and well-defined borders. The lesion had a circumscribed aspect in the left mammary gland. In the right mammary gland, there was a heterogeneous lesion with cystic formations and anechoic content. Cytopathological examination of the nodules was performed by fine needle aspiration cytology and revealed the presence of epithelial cells with ovoid and aberrant nuclei, anisocariasis, binucleation, coarse chromatin, and a high nucleus to cytoplasm ratio suggestive of carcinoma. The animal had a lean body score due to hyporexia that had evolved to anorexia and was undergoing supportive treatment. Nevertheless, the animal died two months after the cytologic diagnosis. A necropsy was performed. Cutting of the breast nodules revealed a hardened pale yellow material. The animal had pronounced pleural effusion, hemorrhage, and numerous pale yellow nodules of various sizes with firm consistency throughout the lung parenchyma. It also had hepatomegaly and splenomegaly.[...]

Molecular evidence of early vertical transmission of Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum in a dog / Evidência molecular da transmissão vertical precoce de Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum em um cão

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is caused by the protozoon Leishmania infantum . Transmission of this parasite to hosts occurs mainly through the bite of infected sand flies. However, alternative infection routes have been hypothesized, especially in areas where the biological vector is absent. The exact time of infection and whether in utero transmission occurs have still not been fully elucidated. This report demonstrates molecular evidence of vertical transmission of L. infantum from a pregnant dog to the embryo. Samples (e.g. vulva, vagina, cervix, uterine body, uterine horn and ovaries) from a female naturally infected by L. infantum and from her embryo were molecularly analyzed by means of qPCR and cPCR followed by DNA sequencing. The gestational age was estimated to be 23±1 day. Through qPCR, the presence of L. infantum DNA was detected in all the samples analyzed (n=7), including the embryo, conversely through cPCR, only four samples (vagina, cervix, uterine body and embryo) were positive. This study demonstrated that transmission of L. infantum from a pregnant dog to the embryo might occur in the early days of pregnancy. In conclusion, this is the first report showing L. infantum infecting a canine embryo.

Leishmaniose visceral (LV) é causada pelo protozoário Leishmania infantum . A transmissão deste parasito para hospedeiros é principalmente vetorial. No entanto, rotas alternativas de infecção têm sido investigadas, especialmente em áreas onde o vetor biológico está ausente. O período exato de infecção e se a transmissão in utero ocorre ainda não está totalmente elucidada. Este estudo demonstra uma evidência molecular da transmissão vertical de L. infantum de uma cadela prenhe para o embrião. As amostras (vulva, vagina, cérvix, corpo do útero, corno do útero e ovários) de uma fêmea naturalmente infectada por L. infantum e de seu embrião foram analisados molecularmente por meio de qPCR e cPCR, seguido de sequenciamento de DNA. A estimativa da idade gestacional foi de 23±1 dia. Na qPCR, a presença de DNA de L. infantum foi detectado em todas as amostras (n=7) analisadas, incluindo o embrião. No entanto, na PCR convencional, apenas quatro amostras (vagina, cérvix, corpo do útero e embrião) foram positivas. Este estudo demonstrou que a transmissão de L. infantum de uma cadela prenhe para o embrião pode ocorrer nos primeiros dias de prenhez. Em conclusão, de acordo com o conhecimento dos autores, este é o primeiro relatório evidenciando infecção de embrião canino por L. infantum.

Molecular evidence of early vertical transmission of Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum in a dog / Evidência molecular da transmissão vertical precoce de Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum em um cão

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is caused by the protozoon Leishmania infantum . Transmission of this parasite to hosts occurs mainly through the bite of infected sand flies. However, alternative infection routes have been hypothesized, especially in areas where the biological vector is absent. The exact time of infection and whether in utero transmission occurs have still not been fully elucidated. This report demonstrates molecular evidence of vertical transmission of L. infantum from a pregnant dog to the embryo. Samples (e.g. vulva, vagina, cervix, uterine body, uterine horn and ovaries) from a female naturally infected by L. infantum and from her embryo were molecularly analyzed by means of qPCR and cPCR followed by DNA sequencing. The gestational age was estimated to be 23±1 day. Through qPCR, the presence of L. infantum DNA was detected in all the samples analyzed (n=7), including the embryo, conversely through cPCR, only four samples (vagina, cervix, uterine body and embryo) were positive. This study demonstrated that transmission of L. infantum from a pregnant dog to the embryo might occur in the early days of pregnancy. In conclusion, this is the first report showing L. infantum infecting a canine embryo.(AU)

Leishmaniose visceral (LV) é causada pelo protozoário Leishmania infantum . A transmissão deste parasito para hospedeiros é principalmente vetorial. No entanto, rotas alternativas de infecção têm sido investigadas, especialmente em áreas onde o vetor biológico está ausente. O período exato de infecção e se a transmissão in utero ocorre ainda não está totalmente elucidada. Este estudo demonstra uma evidência molecular da transmissão vertical de L. infantum de uma cadela prenhe para o embrião. As amostras (vulva, vagina, cérvix, corpo do útero, corno do útero e ovários) de uma fêmea naturalmente infectada por L. infantum e de seu embrião foram analisados molecularmente por meio de qPCR e cPCR, seguido de sequenciamento de DNA. A estimativa da idade gestacional foi de 23±1 dia. Na qPCR, a presença de DNA de L. infantum foi detectado em todas as amostras (n=7) analisadas, incluindo o embrião. No entanto, na PCR convencional, apenas quatro amostras (vagina, cérvix, corpo do útero e embrião) foram positivas. Este estudo demonstrou que a transmissão de L. infantum de uma cadela prenhe para o embrião pode ocorrer nos primeiros dias de prenhez. Em conclusão, de acordo com o conhecimento dos autores, este é o primeiro relatório evidenciando infecção de embrião canino por L. infantum.(AU)

Correlation between chronic inflammation, immunostaining and parasite load in the genital system of female dogs naturally infected with Leishmania infantum / Correlação entre inflamação crônica, imunomarcação e carga parasitária no sistema genital de cadelas naturalmente infectadas com Leishmania infantum

The aim of the present study was to investigate the correlations among chronic inflammatory reaction, immunostaining and parasite load in the genital system of female dogs naturally infected with Leishmania infantum . Animals (n = 10) used in this study were from the Department of Vector Control and Animal Surveillance of the municipality of Caruaru, state of Pernambuco, Brazil. Fragments of the vulva, vagina, cervix, uterine body, uterine horns and ovaries were submitted to histopathological analysis, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and DNA detection of amastigotes by qPCR. Correlations were found between the IHC findings and chronic inflammatory infiltrate related to L. Infantum only in the vulva and vagina; whereas, the same inflammatory reactions without immunostaining were observed in all organs, except the ovaries. L. Infantum DNA was detected in all organs of genital system, with no difference in parasite load observed among the different organs. No correlation was reported between parasite load and inflammatory lesions in the organs evaluated, except for the uterine body, in which an inverse correlation was detected. In conclusion, the vulva and vagina were the major sites of lesions and immunostaining for L. Infantum amastigotes in the genital system of female dogs. Moreover, parasite load exerted no influence on the intensity of the lesions in the organs evaluated.(AU)

Considerando a falta de estudos sobre lesões nos órgãos genitais de cadelas naturalmente infectadas por Leishmania infantum , o objetivo do presente estudo foi investigar a correlação entre reação inflamatória crônica, imunomarcação e carga parasitária, no sistema genital. Dez animais foram fornecidos pelo Departamento de Controle de Vetores e Vigilância Animal do município de Caruaru, Estado de Pernambuco, Brasil. Fragmentos de vulva, vagina, cérvix, corpo do útero, corno do útero e ovários foram avaliados por descrição histopatológica, imuno-histoquímica (IHQ) e detecção de DNA de formas amastigotas por qPCR. A relação entre IHQ e infiltrado inflamatório crônico relacionado com L. infantum foi observada apenas na vulva e vagina, enquanto as mesmas reações sem imunomarcação foram observadas em todos os órgãos, exceto nos ovários. DNA de L. infantum foi detectado em todos os órgãos do sistema genital, porém, sem diferença de carga parasitária entre eles. Não houve correlação entre a carga parasitária e lesões inflamatórias nos órgãos avaliados, com exceção do corpo do útero, em que foi encontrada uma correlação inversa. Em conclusão, a vulva e a vagina foram os principais locais de lesões e imunomarcação para formas amastigotas L. infantum no sistema genital de cadelas. A carga parasitária não influenciou a intensidade das lesões nos órgãos avaliados.(AU)

Effect of dietary selenium and vitamin E supplementation on testicular morphology and serum testosterone concentration in goats following scrotal insulation

Background: Heat directly applied to the testis has been providing information regarding the damage triggering mechanisms on spermatogenesis and possible treatments to prevent testicular changes. Testis submitted to heat-shock have inhibition of the local antioxidant defense mechanisms against lipid peroxidation and free radicals. Vitamin E and Selenium protect biological membranes against free radicals to prevent membrane lipid peroxidation. The current assay evaluated the effect of dietary supplementation with Selenium and Vitamin E on testicular parenchyma and testosterone levels of goats submitted to heat shock by scrotal insulation.Materials, Methods & Results: The effect of dietary selenium and vitamin E supplementation on testicular parameters and serum testosterone concentration was evaluated in goats subjected to scrotal insulation. The animals were randomly allocated into two groups (n = 6) to receive either a control diet (CO) or a diet supplemented with selenium and vitamin E (SE). The animals received supplementation for 120 days: 60 days prior to scrotal insulation, 18 days during scrotal insulation and 42 days after scrotal insulation. Orchiectomy was performed on three animals from each group, immediately after the end of scrotal insulation. The remaining animals were neutered at the end of the experimental period (120 days). Testicles were routinely process [...](AU)

Histopathological evaluation and parasite quantification (qPCR) in the male dog's genital system after natural infection with Leishmania infantum / Avaliação histopatológica e quantificação parasitária (qPCR) no sistema genital de cães machos após infecção natural com Leishmania infantum

Canine visceral leishmaniasisis an important disease caused by the protozoon Leishmania infantum which affects several organs and systems, including the genital tract. The L. infantum tropism to the male genital system and correlation among parasite load, immunohistochemistry detection and structural changes in these organs is controversy. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate this correlation in the genital organs of the male dogs naturally infected with L. infantum. Samples from testicles, epididymis, prostate, glans penis, prepuce and scrotum were collected from 19 positive adult dogs. Structural changes were observed in the testicles (5.2%), epididymis (2.6%), prepuce (5.2%) and scrotum (5.2%) of the samples positive at immunohistochemistry examination. Conversely, similar structural changes were observed in all tissues negative at immunohistochemistry analysis. Moreover, L. infantum DNA was detected in all organs with the highest parasite load found in testicles, epididymis, and prostate gland. , Testicles had the highest parasite load but the lowest number of inflammatory lesions. These inflammatory lesions were observed in all organs of reproductive system of dogs; however, no correlation was observed between the parasite load and inflammatory lesions of dogs naturally infected with L. infantum.(AU)

A Leishmaniose Visceral Canina é uma importante enfermidade causada pelo protozoário Leishmania infantum que afeta diversos órgãos e sistemas, incluindo o trato genital. No entanto, o tropismo da L. infantum pelo sistema genital masculino e a correlação entre carga parasitária, detecção imunohistoquímica e alterações estruturais nesses órgãos ainda é uma questão controversa. Sendo assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar essa correlação em órgãos genitais de cães naturalmente infectados por L. infantum. Para tal, amostras de testículos, epidídimos, próstata, glande, prepúcio e escroto foram coletadas de 19 cães adultos positivos. Lesões microscópicas associadas com imunomarcação de formas amastigotas do parasito foram observadas nos testículos (5,2%), epidídimos (2,6%), prepúcio (5,2%) e escroto (5,2%). Por outro lado, alterações estruturais sem imunomarcação foram observadas em todos os órgãos. Além disso, o DNA de L. infantum foi encontrado em todos os órgãos com maior carga parasitária nos testículos, epidídimos e próstata. Curiosamente, os testículos apresentaram a maior carga parasitária, porém apresentaram o menor grau de lesões inflamatórias. Essas lesões inflamatórias foram observadas em todos os órgãos do sistema reprodutor de cães com L. infantum. Entretanto, não houve correlação entre carga parasitária e lesões inflamatórias nestes órgãos.(AU)

Effect of dietary selenium and vitamin E supplementation on testicular morphology and serum testosterone concentration in goats following scrotal insulation

Background: Heat directly applied to the testis has been providing information regarding the damage triggering mechanisms on spermatogenesis and possible treatments to prevent testicular changes. Testis submitted to heat-shock have inhibition of the local antioxidant defense mechanisms against lipid peroxidation and free radicals. Vitamin E and Selenium protect biological membranes against free radicals to prevent membrane lipid peroxidation. The current assay evaluated the effect of dietary supplementation with Selenium and Vitamin E on testicular parenchyma and testosterone levels of goats submitted to heat shock by scrotal insulation.Materials, Methods & Results: The effect of dietary selenium and vitamin E supplementation on testicular parameters and serum testosterone concentration was evaluated in goats subjected to scrotal insulation. The animals were randomly allocated into two groups (n = 6) to receive either a control diet (CO) or a diet supplemented with selenium and vitamin E (SE). The animals received supplementation for 120 days: 60 days prior to scrotal insulation, 18 days during scrotal insulation and 42 days after scrotal insulation. Orchiectomy was performed on three animals from each group, immediately after the end of scrotal insulation. The remaining animals were neutered at the end of the experimental period (120 days). Testicles were routinely process [...]

Transmission routes of visceral leishmaniasis in mammals / Vias de transmissão da leishmaniose visceral em mamíferos

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a chronic disease caused by Leishmania infantum. The major sites of parasite localization in infected animals are the secondary lymphoid organs, bone marrow and cutaneous tissue. However, reports exist on the detection of the parasite in the organs of the male and female genital system. The main route of transmission is related to the hematophagous sandfly vectors of the genus Lutzomyia(New World) and Phlebotomus(Old World). However, other routes of transmission may be mentioned, such as sexual, vertical, hematogenic without vector and others involved in VL epidemiology. Thus, the current article reviews the main forms of transmission of visceral leishmaniasis in mammals.(AU)

A leishmaniose visceral (LV) é uma doença crônica causada pelo protozoárioLeishmania infantum.Os principais sítios de localização do parasito nos animais acometidos pela LV foram órgãos linfoides primários, secundários e tegumento. Contudo, existem relatos da detecção do parasito em órgãos do sistema genital masculino e feminino. A principal via de transmissão decorre da ação hematófaga de vetores flebotomíneos pertencentes aos gêneros Lutzomyia(Novo Mundo) e Phlebotomus(Velho Mundo). Todavia, outras formas de transmissão podem ser relacionadas, como as vias sexual, vertical, hematógena não vetorial e ainda existe a possibilidade de outros vetores estarem envolvidos na epidemiologia da doença. Dessa forma, a proposta deste artigo foi revisar as principais formas de transmissão da leishmaniose visceral em mamíferos.(AU)