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

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

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

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

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

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

Prevalence and molecular characterization of Giardia duodenalis in calves in Turkey

Background: Giardia duodenalis (G. duodenalis) is an ubiquitous, flagellated intestinal protozoan with major public health significance worldwide. Limited data are available on the epidemiology of G. duodenalis in dairy cattle from Turkey. Determining the zoonotic potential of the Giardia infection requires molecular characterization. The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence and to molecularly characterize G. duodenalis in calves less than three months of age in Aydin, Aegean region of Turkey. Materials, Methods & Results: The study was conducted on different dairy farms in the south-western part of the Turkey, Aegean Region, Aydin. A total of 198 Holstein Friesian calves less than three months of age, of both sexes were enrolled into the study. Faecal samples from each calf were collected manually from the rectum using a disposable latex glove. The consistency of collected samples was recorded as diarrhoeic or non-diarrhoeic. Diagnosis of G. duodenalis infection was made microscopically by detection of cysts in the faecal samples. One hundred and sixteen (58.5%) of the 198 faecal samples were diarrheic. Giardia cysts were found in 27 (23.28%) of the diarrheic samples and in 8 (9.76%) of nondiarrheic samples (P < 0.05). The overall prevalence of giardiosis in calves was determined as 17.67%. The prevalence of Giardia genotypes was identified by DNA sequence analysis of the beta-giardin gene for every PCR positive sample. The beta-giardin nested PCR assay was revealed assemblage A and sub-genotype A3 was detected in all of 35 samples (100%). Discussion: The highest prevalence of Giardia infection in calves is reported at the age between 1 and 6 months, and the prevalence shows decreased rate from the age of 6 months. The present study was conducted in Aydin, a province of south-western Turkey in the Aegean Region, and the overall prevalence from a total of 198 dairy calves was 17.67%. […](AU)

Prevalence and molecular characterization of Giardia duodenalis in calves in Turkey

Background: Giardia duodenalis (G. duodenalis) is an ubiquitous, flagellated intestinal protozoan with major public health significance worldwide. Limited data are available on the epidemiology of G. duodenalis in dairy cattle from Turkey. Determining the zoonotic potential of the Giardia infection requires molecular characterization. The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence and to molecularly characterize G. duodenalis in calves less than three months of age in Aydin, Aegean region of Turkey. Materials, Methods & Results: The study was conducted on different dairy farms in the south-western part of the Turkey, Aegean Region, Aydin. A total of 198 Holstein Friesian calves less than three months of age, of both sexes were enrolled into the study. Faecal samples from each calf were collected manually from the rectum using a disposable latex glove. The consistency of collected samples was recorded as diarrhoeic or non-diarrhoeic. Diagnosis of G. duodenalis infection was made microscopically by detection of cysts in the faecal samples. One hundred and sixteen (58.5%) of the 198 faecal samples were diarrheic. Giardia cysts were found in 27 (23.28%) of the diarrheic samples and in 8 (9.76%) of nondiarrheic samples (P < 0.05). The overall prevalence of giardiosis in calves was determined as 17.67%. The prevalence of Giardia genotypes was identified by DNA sequence analysis of the beta-giardin gene for every PCR positive sample. The beta-giardin nested PCR assay was revealed assemblage A and sub-genotype A3 was detected in all of 35 samples (100%). Discussion: The highest prevalence of Giardia infection in calves is reported at the age between 1 and 6 months, and the prevalence shows decreased rate from the age of 6 months. The present study was conducted in Aydin, a province of south-western Turkey in the Aegean Region, and the overall prevalence from a total of 198 dairy calves was 17.67%. […]

Prevalence and Molecular Characterization of Giardia duodenalis in Calves in Turkey

Background: Giardia duodenalis (G. duodenalis) is an ubiquitous, flagellated intestinal protozoan with major public health significance worldwide. Limited data are available on the epidemiology of G. duodenalis in dairy cattle from Turkey. Determining the zoonotic potential of the Giardia infection requires molecular characterization. The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence and to molecularly characterize G. duodenalis in calves less than three months of age in Aydin, Aegean region of Turkey.Materials, Methods & Results: The study was conducted on different dairy farms in the south-western part of the Turkey, Aegean Region, Aydin. A total of 198 Holstein Friesian calves less than three months of age, of both sexes were enrolled into the study. Faecal samples from each calf were collected manually from the rectum using a disposable latex glove. The consistency of collected samples was recorded as diarrhoeic or non-diarrhoeic.  Diagnosis of G. duodenalis infection was made microscopically by detection of cysts in the faecal samples. One hundred and sixteen (58.5%) of the 198 faecal samples were diarrheic. Giardia cysts were found in 27 (23.28%) of the diarrheic samples and in 8 (9.76%) of nondiarrheic samples (P 0.05). The overall prevalence of giardiosis in calves was determined as 17.67%. The prevalence of Giardia genotypes was identified by DNA

Doxycycline-Chloroquine combination for the treatment of canine monocytic ehrlichiosis

Background: Ehrlichiosis in dogs is a vector borne disease caused by Ehrlichia canis, from the Anaplasmataceae family, capable of causing multisystemic disorders. Following an incubation period of 8-20 days, acute, subclinical and chronic forms of the disease may develop and affected dogs frequently showed hemorrhage, lymphadenopahty, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, along with cardiac/renal disorders and myelosupression. Most of the untreated dogs spontaneously recover form the acute phase and enters the subclinical phase, in which some of them may develop chronic phase characterized by bone marrow aplasia. Ehrlichial organisms are commonly susceptible to tetracycline derivatives, and doxycycline is probably most commonly used for treatment of the infection. Doxycycline may be quite effective for clearing parasitemia in acute E. canis infection. Clinical recovery may be observed within 2-3 days, besides treatment should be continued for 3 weeks, as some cases may remain carriers even if short treatment protocole is administered. Most dogs infected with CME usually recover from the acute and subclinical phases when treated with doxycycline or other tetracyclines. Some dogs enter the chronic phase of the disease for which the prognosis is grave. The purpose of the present study was to report the presence of E. canis infection in dogs in Aydin, with a special reference to the efficacy of combined doxycycline and chloroquine therapy. Materials, Methods & Results: A propective study was carried out on dogs referred and 12 dogs were diagnosed as canine monocytic ehrlichiosis within traditional buffy coat smear within giemsa staining, Snap 4dx test and nested PCR applications. Data on rectal temperature, clinical haematology and serum biochemistry (involving vbALT, AST and BUN) were registered before and after treatment in both groups. A total of 6 dogs with a diagnosis of CME were enrolled in each group. Group CD (n = 6) received doxycycline (10 mg/kg perorally twice a day for 2 weeks) and chloroquine (2.5 mg/kg perorally twice a day for 2 weeks) and group D received solely doxycycline (10 mg/kg perorally twice a day for 2 weeks). The clinical haematology and biochemistry results of canine ehrlichiosis before (day 0) and after treatment (day 30) for both gorups were compared. Among relevant parameters of aforementioned groups, no statistically significant differences were detected (P > 0.05). Following treatment in both groups the clinical signs were dinished, body temperature of the dogs returned to physiological levels in both groups. Lymphadenopathy was regressed in 1 week, and 1 month later the clinical examination was repeated in which all dogs in combined treated group showed complete clinical recovery, whereas lymphadenopathy was stil evident in some of the dogs in chloroquine group. Discussion: Doxycycline has still been the first line-drug option for the treatment of acute canine monocytic ehrlichiosis, however for the subclinical and chronic phases of the diseases its effectiveness is controversial. Further research are warranted to investigate any adjuvant or combined therapy may be an alternatives. In this clinical trial combined doxycycline and chloroquine therapy were used for dogs with active Ehrlichia canis infection (PCR + and E. canis seroactive). Although there were no statistically significant hematological and serum biochemical differences among dogs treated with doxycycline and chloroquine in contrast to dogs treated alone with doxycycline, clinical recovery was impressive in dogs with combined treatment. These observations demonstrate that chloroquine may have helped hastening the relevant clinical signs of canine monocytic ehrlichiosis and clinical improvement.

Acute phase response with special reference to C-reactive protein in dogs with generalized

Background: Canine demodicosis is an inflammatory parasitic skin disease associated with the presence of excessive numbers of Demodex mites. The pathogenesis involving demodicosis is not completely recognized. It is suggested that demodicosis occurs because of the inability of the host to regulate mite intensity, rather than from an elevation of the mite virulence. The acute phase response is a part of the innate defence system of the host against trauma, inflammation, and infection. Some of the cytokines involved in pathogenic phenomena in canine demodicosis are known as inducers of the acute phase response. Among the large group of acute phase reactants, C-reactive protein (CRP) may have special attention in canine demodicosis, because of its relationship with cytokines involved in the development of skin inflammation. In this study we sought to elucidate the relationship between generalized demodicosis and the serum concentration CRP in dogs. Materials, Methods & Results: Twenty two dogs (n = 14 demodicosis, n = 8 healthy), enrolled in the study were recruited from the dogs referred to 5 different veterinary practices participated. Dogs of various breed, both sexes, entire/neutered were included in the study on the basis of being Demodex canis mite positive on microscopic examination of skin scrapings. Cytological examination of the skin scraping showed no yeast nor bacteria. The animals exhibited at least one of the following clinical signs of generalized demodicosis: presence of = 5 spot lesions, involvement of = 25% of the dog’s face or of its body surface, pododemodicosis involving two or more feet. None of the dogs completing the study had been treated with ectoparasiticides or steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the last 30 days before the onset of the study. Plasma CRP concentration was determined using commercial ELISA test kit and an ELISA reader according to the manufacturer instructions. Statistical analysis were performed by Mann-Whitney U test. P values of less than 0.05 were regarded as significant. Serum CRP concentration was significantly higher in dogs with generalized demodicosis compared to those of control dogs Discussion: The present study presents for the first time a survey of the acute phase protein expression regarding CRP in serum of dogs affected by demodicosis. Results indicated that the concentration of investigated, including serum CRP, significantly increased in infected dogs. From a clinical perspective, acute phase protein measurement is a useful clinical tool in veterinary medicine but further studies are required to assure their value in particular diseases, because the acute phase response shows variation in different species and pathological processes. The mean plasma levels of the C-reactive protein measured in the peripheral blood of the 14 dogs included in the present study with generalised demodicosis were significantly elevated compared to those of the healthy controls. The results indicated that in generalised demodicosis acute phase response can be mobilized. According to results of this study, we thought that Demodectic mite may have the potential to stimulate an inflammatory response in dogs with generalized demodicosis. This information provides a remarkable potential for use in clinical practice for dogs, hence these biological markers may be very useful for the early diagnosis of inflammation due to the demodectic mange. Although the numbers of dogs investigated in this study was small, CRP concentration could be beneficial in monitoring the response to treatment in dogs with generalized demodicosis. Further studies are warranted for evaluating the clinical usage of this parameter for monitoring the efficacy of therapy in dogs with demodicosis.

Acute phase response with special reference to C-reactive protein in dogs with generalized

Background: Canine demodicosis is an inflammatory parasitic skin disease associated with the presence of excessive numbers of Demodex mites. The pathogenesis involving demodicosis is not completely recognized. It is suggested that demodicosis occurs because of the inability of the host to regulate mite intensity, rather than from an elevation of the mite virulence. The acute phase response is a part of the innate defence system of the host against trauma, inflammation, and infection. Some of the cytokines involved in pathogenic phenomena in canine demodicosis are known as inducers of the acute phase response. Among the large group of acute phase reactants, C-reactive protein (CRP) may have special attention in canine demodicosis, because of its relationship with cytokines involved in the development of skin inflammation. In this study we sought to elucidate the relationship between generalized demodicosis and the serum concentration CRP in dogs. Materials, Methods & Results: Twenty two dogs (n = 14 demodicosis, n = 8 healthy), enrolled in the study were recruited from the dogs referred to 5 different veterinary practices participated. Dogs of various breed, both sexes, entire/neutered were included in the study on the basis of being Demodex canis mite positive on microscopic examination of skin scrapings. Cytological examination of the skin scraping showed no yeast nor bacteria. The animals exhibited at least one of the following clinical signs of generalized demodicosis: presence of = 5 spot lesions, involvement of = 25% of the dogs face or of its body surface, pododemodicosis involving two or more feet. None of the dogs completing the study had been treated with ectoparasiticides or steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the last 30 days before the onset of the study. Plasma CRP concentration was determined using commercial ELISA test kit and an ELISA reader according to the manufacturer instructions. Statistical analysis were performed by Mann-Whitney U test. P values of less than 0.05 were regarded as significant. Serum CRP concentration was significantly higher in dogs with generalized demodicosis compared to those of control dogs Discussion: The present study presents for the first time a survey of the acute phase protein expression regarding CRP in serum of dogs affected by demodicosis. Results indicated that the concentration of investigated, including serum CRP, significantly increased in infected dogs. From a clinical perspective, acute phase protein measurement is a useful clinical tool in veterinary medicine but further studies are required to assure their value in particular diseases, because the acute phase response shows variation in different species and pathological processes. The mean plasma levels of the C-reactive protein measured in the peripheral blood of the 14 dogs included in the present study with generalised demodicosis were significantly elevated compared to those of the healthy controls. The results indicated that in generalised demodicosis acute phase response can be mobilized. According to results of this study, we thought that Demodectic mite may have the potential to stimulate an inflammatory response in dogs with generalized demodicosis. This information provides a remarkable potential for use in clinical practice for dogs, hence these biological markers may be very useful for the early diagnosis of inflammation due to the demodectic mange. Although the numbers of dogs investigated in this study was small, CRP concentration could be beneficial in monitoring the response to treatment in dogs with generalized demodicosis. Further studies are warranted for evaluating the clinical usage of this parameter for monitoring the efficacy of therapy in dogs with demodicosis.(AU)

Florfenicol Therapy During Natural Mannheimia haemolytica Infection in Sakiz Sheep

Background: Bronchopneumonia caused by Mannheimia haemolytica affects sheep of all ages worldwide and may be devastating especially in young animals undergone recent stress (i.e. transportation, weaning, mixing with animals from different farms. It is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in lambs and kids, especially in those that have not received adequate colostrum or in which passive colostral immunity is waning. Yearly herd losses costing millions of dollars have led to research focused on theurapeutic trials and vaccine production because of various strains isolated demonstrating the continuing economic importance of Mannheimia haemolytica infection. A field trial was performed under commercial sheep farm located in Western Turkey, Aydin in an attempt to investigate the efficacy of an injectable formulation of florfenicol against naturally occuring Mannheimia haemolytica. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 27 Sakiz breed lambs at the age of 36–60 days old, of both sexes, with naturally occuring M. haemolytica infection were included in the present study. Prior to allocation into groups, a detailed clinical examination carried out in all the lambs, revealed a variety of abnormal findings: coughing, presence of nasal and ophthalmic discharge increased respiratory rate and rectal temperature and abnormal sounds at lung auscultation. A total of 27 samples taken from transtracheal aspiration bronchoalveolar fluid in the Sakiz breed lambs were taken into sterile containers in an attemp to perf orm isolation and identification of Mannheimia haemolytica . The antibiotic susceptibility tests for Mannheimia haemolytica strains isolated from transtracheal aspiration bronchoalveolar fluid were carried out by disc diffusion as described previously. [...]

Florfenicol Therapy During Natural Mannheimia haemolytica Infection in Sakiz Sheep

Background: Bronchopneumonia caused by Mannheimia haemolytica affects sheep of all ages worldwide and may be devastating especially in young animals undergone recent stress (i.e. transportation, weaning, mixing with animals from different farms. It is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in lambs and kids, especially in those that have not received adequate colostrum or in which passive colostral immunity is waning. Yearly herd losses costing millions of dollars have led to research focused on theurapeutic trials and vaccine production because of various strains isolated demonstrating the continuing economic importance of Mannheimia haemolytica infection. A field trial was performed under commercial sheep farm located in Western Turkey, Aydin in an attempt to investigate the efficacy of an injectable formulation of florfenicol against naturally occuring Mannheimia haemolytica. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 27 Sakiz breed lambs at the age of 36–60 days old, of both sexes, with naturally occuring M. haemolytica infection were included in the present study. Prior to allocation into groups, a detailed clinical examination carried out in all the lambs, revealed a variety of abnormal findings: coughing, presence of nasal and ophthalmic discharge increased respiratory rate and rectal temperature and abnormal sounds at lung auscultation. A total of 27 samples taken from transtracheal aspiration bronchoalveolar fluid in the Sakiz breed lambs were taken into sterile containers in an attemp to perf orm isolation and identification of Mannheimia haemolytica . The antibiotic susceptibility tests for Mannheimia haemolytica strains isolated from transtracheal aspiration bronchoalveolar fluid were carried out by disc diffusion as described previously. [...](AU)

A flock level analysis of an outbreak of natural border disease in Sakiz ewes and their progeny

Background: Pestiviruses cause economically important diseases in domestic ruminants worldwide. Border Disease is a congenital viral infection of sheep, caused by a pestivirus, and is first reported in the Border region of Wales and England. The BDV has worldwide distribution in sheep with different prevalences among countries. Vertical transmission is an important route in the epidemiology of this virus. Infection of fetuses may cause birth of persistently infected lambs, that are viremic, antibody negative, and are excreting virus. The disease is characterized by abortion, barren ewes, stillbirth and persistently infected weak lambs showing neurological and dermatological signs. The economic importance of the disease is related to reproductive failure, abortions and significantly low survival rate of affected lambs. In the present study the aim was to describe clinical, hematological and serological aspects of natural Border disease virus (BDV) infection in a sheep flock in Cine, Aydin. Besides we sought to elucidate the relationship between natural (active infection) and persistent BDV disease and the serum concentration of haptoglobin (Hp) and serum amyloid A (SAA) in infected sheep Materials, Methods & Results: Field observations were carried out in a sheep flock comprising 327 sheep with a history of an outbreak abortion in Cine town in Aydin, Turkey. Twenty-five out of 327 sheep in the flock was monitorized by blood sampling. The animals were selected among aborted ones, at least once, into two weeks preceeding period or with a history of weak lambing. BDV antigen (persistent infection) was detected in 8 out of 25 sheep (32%) while antiviral antibodies (active infection) were detected in 18 animals tested (68%). The disease was mainly characterized by abortions, stillbirth/weak lamb and abnormal brown/black fleece pigmentation, which occurred in an epidemic form. Twenty five sheep were related to disease condition as detected serologically, and the ratio of the number affected to number at risk being was 17:8. The culling rate was 50% of the affected animals. Most of the affected animals were second lambing sheep (5/25, 20%). Hematological variables did not reveal statistical difference whereas serum concentrations of Hp (P < 0.05) and SAA (P < 0.01) were significantly higher in naturally infected sheep in contrast to persistently infected sheep with BDV. Discussion: Clinical signs and detailed laboratory analysis related to natural Border disease outbreak have never been reported in Turkey, although previous epidemiological studies had shown that Border disease virus infection is relatively common in some parts of Turkey in sheep flocks and persistent Border disease virus infection had been described in apparently healthy sheep in Turkey. In the present study the disease was mainly characterized by abortions, stillbirth/weak lamb and abnormal brown/black fleece pigmentation, which occurred in an epidemic form. Besides bronchopneumonia, enteritis and conjunctivitis were detected in a limited population. Neurological signs were only observed in 2 animals. Besides persistent infection was detected in 32% of sheep enrolled. An acute phase reaction involving Hp and SAA has been identified in the present study. These results indicate that the monitoring of selected acute phase proteins may increase the diagnostic information available as a result of their analyses in naturally infected sheep and persistently infected sheep with BDV.

A flock level analysis of an outbreak of natural border disease in Sakiz ewes and their progeny

Background: Pestiviruses cause economically important diseases in domestic ruminants worldwide. Border Disease is a congenital viral infection of sheep, caused by a pestivirus, and is first reported in the Border region of Wales and England. The BDV has worldwide distribution in sheep with different prevalences among countries. Vertical transmission is an important route in the epidemiology of this virus. Infection of fetuses may cause birth of persistently infected lambs, that are viremic, antibody negative, and are excreting virus. The disease is characterized by abortion, barren ewes, stillbirth and persistently infected weak lambs showing neurological and dermatological signs. The economic importance of the disease is related to reproductive failure, abortions and significantly low survival rate of affected lambs. In the present study the aim was to describe clinical, hematological and serological aspects of natural Border disease virus (BDV) infection in a sheep flock in Cine, Aydin. Besides we sought to elucidate the relationship between natural (active infection) and persistent BDV disease and the serum concentration of haptoglobin (Hp) and serum amyloid A (SAA) in infected sheep Materials, Methods & Results: Field observations were carried out in a sheep flock comprising 327 sheep with a history of an outbreak abortion in Cine town in Aydin, Turkey. Twenty-five out of 327 sheep in the flock was monitorized by blood sampling. The animals were selected among aborted ones, at least once, into two weeks preceeding period or with a history of weak lambing. BDV antigen (persistent infection) was detected in 8 out of 25 sheep (32%) while antiviral antibodies (active infection) were detected in 18 animals tested (68%). The disease was mainly characterized by abortions, stillbirth/weak lamb and abnormal brown/black fleece pigmentation, which occurred in an epidemic form. Twenty five sheep were related to disease condition as detected serologically, and the ratio of the number affected to number at risk being was 17:8. The culling rate was 50% of the affected animals. Most of the affected animals were second lambing sheep (5/25, 20%). Hematological variables did not reveal statistical difference whereas serum concentrations of Hp (P < 0.05) and SAA (P < 0.01) were significantly higher in naturally infected sheep in contrast to persistently infected sheep with BDV. Discussion: Clinical signs and detailed laboratory analysis related to natural Border disease outbreak have never been reported in Turkey, although previous epidemiological studies had shown that Border disease virus infection is relatively common in some parts of Turkey in sheep flocks and persistent Border disease virus infection had been described in apparently healthy sheep in Turkey. In the present study the disease was mainly characterized by abortions, stillbirth/weak lamb and abnormal brown/black fleece pigmentation, which occurred in an epidemic form. Besides bronchopneumonia, enteritis and conjunctivitis were detected in a limited population. Neurological signs were only observed in 2 animals. Besides persistent infection was detected in 32% of sheep enrolled. An acute phase reaction involving Hp and SAA has been identified in the present study. These results indicate that the monitoring of selected acute phase proteins may increase the diagnostic information available as a result of their analyses in naturally infected sheep and persistently infected sheep with BDV.(AU)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prevalence and Molecular Characterization of Giardia duodenalis in Calves in Turkey

Background: Giardia duodenalis (G. duodenalis) is an ubiquitous, flagellated intestinal protozoan with major public health significance worldwide. Limited data are available on the epidemiology of G. duodenalis in dairy cattle from Turkey. Determining the zoonotic potential of the Giardia infection requires molecular characterization. The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence and to molecularly characterize G. duodenalis in calves less than three months of age in Aydin, Aegean region of Turkey.Materials, Methods & Results: The study was conducted on different dairy farms in the south-western part of the Turkey, Aegean Region, Aydin. A total of 198 Holstein Friesian calves less than three months of age, of both sexes were enrolled into the study. Faecal samples from each calf were collected manually from the rectum using a disposable latex glove. The consistency of collected samples was recorded as diarrhoeic or non-diarrhoeic.  Diagnosis of G. duodenalis infection was made microscopically by detection of cysts in the faecal samples. One hundred and sixteen (58.5%) of the 198 faecal samples were diarrheic. Giardia cysts were found in 27 (23.28%) of the diarrheic samples and in 8 (9.76%) of nondiarrheic samples (P 0.05). The overall prevalence of giardiosis in calves was determined as 17.67%. The prevalence of Giardia genotypes was identified by DNA

Prevalence and Molecular Characterization of Giardia duodenalis in Calves in Turkey

Background: Giardia duodenalis (G. duodenalis) is an ubiquitous, flagellated intestinal protozoan with major public health significance worldwide. Limited data are available on the epidemiology of G. duodenalis in dairy cattle from Turkey. Determining the zoonotic potential of the Giardia infection requires molecular characterization. The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence and to molecularly characterize G. duodenalis in calves less than three months of age in Aydin, Aegean region of Turkey.Materials, Methods & Results: The study was conducted on different dairy farms in the south-western part of the Turkey, Aegean Region, Aydin. A total of 198 Holstein Friesian calves less than three months of age, of both sexes were enrolled into the study. Faecal samples from each calf were collected manually from the rectum using a disposable latex glove. The consistency of collected samples was recorded as diarrhoeic or non-diarrhoeic.  Diagnosis of G. duodenalis infection was made microscopically by detection of cysts in the faecal samples. One hundred and sixteen (58.5%) of the 198 faecal samples were diarrheic. Giardia cysts were found in 27 (23.28%) of the diarrheic samples and in 8 (9.76%) of nondiarrheic samples (P 0.05). The overall prevalence of giardiosis in calves was determined as 17.67%. The prevalence of Giardia genotypes was identified by DNA