Canine hypothyroidism with neurological disorders

Background: Hypothyroidism is characterized by hypofunction of the thyroid gland. It results in deficient production of thyroid hormones. Neurological disorders resulting from hypothyroidism are rare, which highlights the importance of this study. This study reports a case of hypothyroidism in a dog with neurological clinical signs, that was treated at the Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz's Veterinary Hospital (HV-UESC). Case: A 4-year-old male intact Dogo Argentino breed dog, weighing 64 kg, presenting obesity, anorexia, prostration, walking in circles, and chronic dermatopathy was presented at HV-UESC. Upon physical examination, the animal presented a deficit of proprioception in the 4 limbs, with preserved superficial and deep pain. No alteration was observed in the ears, that could explained the clinical signs. In terms of dermatopathy, the animal presented symmetrical alopecia in the lateral region of the thighs and tail. Blood samples were collected for a complete blood count and biochemical tests of urea, creatinine, ALT, AST and cholesterol. Imaging radiography and ultrasonography were performed, which ruled out thoracic and abdominal changes that could be related to the case. Prior to receiving the blood test results, idiopathic encephalitis was suspected and enrofloxacin and prednisone were prescribed for 7 days. During the medication period, previous exams were provided, which indicated only increased cholesterol (500 mg/dL). The animal showed no improvement with the prescribed medication. In view of the clinical signs presented by the patient and the results of the additional tests, hormonal disease was suspected, compatible with hypothyroidism. Thus, hormonal tests of total T4, free T4, and TSH were requested, leading to verification of reduced total T4 (0.3 ng/dL) and free T4 (0.15 ng/dL) levels, and confirming the dysfunction of the thyroid gland. The previous treatment was suspended and thyroid hormone replacement was initiated. After 3 days of treatment, the neurological signs regressed and the animal became more active; after 30 days, the areas of alopecia decreased. Although the patient did not receive the recommended clinical follow-up for such cases, it was possible to establish the ideal levothyroxine dosage for the dog after appropriate adjustments, which permitted thyroid hormone levels to return to normal. Discussion: This report refers to a case of hypothyroidism in a giant dog breed. The dog in the report showed clinical signs of a dermatological, metabolic, and neurological nature, which is consistent with a lack of thyroid hormone. The main signs presented by the animal were neurological, such as walking in circles and a deficit of proprioception in the four limbs. These clinical signs are rarely mentioned in the literature associated with hypothyroidism. Laboratory abnormalities are correlated with the severity and chronicity of the disease. The animal showed a decrease in total T4 and free T4, which is to be expected in a hypothyroid animal. As a result, levothyroxine replacement treatment was initiated. The dose used for the dog, which is the recommended dose in the literature, greatly increased its total T4 levels. As a result, the dose was readjusted after a new clinical evaluation. The rate of metabolism and absorption of levothyroxine varies widely and is independent of weight. The patient showed quickly improvement in neurological signs, activity level, and serum cholesterol rate. Regarding dermatological signs and body condition, there was a more gradual improvement. This corroborates what is mentioned in the literature, which indicates that improvements can take many months

Evaluation of the prophylactic action of veterinary dental gel containing Aloe vera and green tea on calculus formation in dogs submitted to periodontal treatment / Avaliação da ação profilática de gel odontológico veterinárioa base de Aloe vera e chá verde na formação de cálculosdentários em cães submetidos a tratamento periodontal

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of veterinary dental gel containing Aloe vera and green tea, with and without a water additive in preventing calculus formation in dogs after all animals were initially submitted to periodontal treatment. The preventive treatment was performed on 72 dogs, which 24 received treatment with the veterinary dental gel (G1), 24 received treatment with the gel associated with a water additive (G2), and 24 dogs did not receive any treatment (G3). The animals also were subdivided into three groups according to their diet. The gel was applied directly to the dogs' teeth and 500 ml of the additive was added to the water, three times a week. The animals' teeth were photographed every 30 days to observe the time of new deposition of dental calculus. The images were analyzed by MATLAB. The dogs in G1 showed average of new accumulation of dental calculus of 254.8 days, those in G2 also showed an average return of 258.6 days, and G3 showed an average return of 156.7 days. There was a statistical difference between G1 - G3 (p-value = 0,000007885) and G2 - G3 (p-value = 0,00004568). There was no statistical difference between the different food groups. We concluded that the gel used in this study, associated or not with the water additive, was effective in helping to maintain the dental health of the animals for a prolonged period after the surgical procedure to prevent the calculus return.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito do gel odontológico veterinário contendo Aloe vera e chá verde, com e sem aditivo hídrico, na prevenção da formação de cálculos dentários em cães, após todos os animais terem sido inicialmente submetidos ao tratamento periodontal. O tratamento preventivo foi realizado em 72 cães, dos quais 24 receberam tratamento com o gel odontológico veterinário (G1), 24 receberam tratamento com o gel associado ao aditivo hídrico (G2) e 24 cães não receberam nenhum tratamento (G3). Os animais também foram subdivididos em três grupos de acordo com a dieta alimen-tar. O gel foi aplicado diretamente nos dentes dos cães e 500 ml do aditivo foram adicionados à água, três vezes por semana. Os dentes dos animais foram fotografados a cada 30 dias para observar o momento da nova deposição do cálculo dentário. As imagens foram analisadas pelo MATLAB. Os cães do G1 apresentaram média de novo acúmulo de cálculo dentário de 254,8 dias, os do G2 também apresentaram retorno médio de 258,6 dias, e o G3 apresentou retorno médio de 156,7 dias. Houve diferença estatística entre G1 - G3 (p-valor = 0,000007885) e G2 - G3 (p-valor = 0,00004568). Não houve diferença estatística entre os diferentes grupos de alimentos. Concluímos que o gel utilizado neste estudo, associado ou não ao aditivo hídrico, foi eficaz em auxiliar na manutenção da saúde bucal dos animais por um período prolongado após o procedimento cirúrgico para evitar o retorno do cálculo.(AU)

Clinical and ultrasonographic aspects of benign and malignant mammary tumors in female dogs

Background: Mammary neoplasms in dogs are commonly observed in veterinary clinical routine, most of which beingmalignant. Hormonal stimulation, endogenous or exogenous, may possibly influence its development. In addition to clinicalevaluation, ultrasound analysis can provide information about the characteristics of breast lumps. The association betweenclinical-epidemiological and pathological data is important for diagnosis. Therefore, given the importance of this pathologyfor the health of affected dogs, we aimed to evaluate the clinical and ultrasound alterations, along with the factors associated with the development of benign and malignant mammary neoplasms in female dogs.Materials, Methods & Results: We examined 47 samples from the mammary tumors of 35 female dogs at the Small Animal Clinic of the Veterinary Hospital (HV) of the Santa Cruz State University (UESC). The dogs underwent a completeclinical examination, with clinical staging, via TNM classification, followed by hematological, biochemical, radiologicaland ultrasound, abdominal, and breast exams. Breast ultrasound examination was used to evaluate the shape parameterssuch as, limits, margins or contour, ecotexture, echogenicity, hyperechoic halo, posterior acoustic shading, surroundingchanges, and nodule components. These criteria were associated with the histopathological classification of neoplasms.Epidemiological data was studied through an adapted questionnaire containing information on risk factors associated withbreast cancer. The same questionnaire was applied to tutors of 19, age-matched, female dogs with no history of breastcancer. The results revealed that most female dogs with neoplasia were over eight years of age, with no specific breed andwere not castrated, and 31.4% of them had already been administered with contraceptives during the reproductive period...

Clinical and ultrasonographic aspects of benign and malignant mammary tumors in female dogs

Background: Mammary neoplasms in dogs are commonly observed in veterinary clinical routine, most of which beingmalignant. Hormonal stimulation, endogenous or exogenous, may possibly influence its development. In addition to clinicalevaluation, ultrasound analysis can provide information about the characteristics of breast lumps. The association betweenclinical-epidemiological and pathological data is important for diagnosis. Therefore, given the importance of this pathologyfor the health of affected dogs, we aimed to evaluate the clinical and ultrasound alterations, along with the factors associated with the development of benign and malignant mammary neoplasms in female dogs.Materials, Methods & Results: We examined 47 samples from the mammary tumors of 35 female dogs at the Small Animal Clinic of the Veterinary Hospital (HV) of the Santa Cruz State University (UESC). The dogs underwent a completeclinical examination, with clinical staging, via TNM classification, followed by hematological, biochemical, radiologicaland ultrasound, abdominal, and breast exams. Breast ultrasound examination was used to evaluate the shape parameterssuch as, limits, margins or contour, ecotexture, echogenicity, hyperechoic halo, posterior acoustic shading, surroundingchanges, and nodule components. These criteria were associated with the histopathological classification of neoplasms.Epidemiological data was studied through an adapted questionnaire containing information on risk factors associated withbreast cancer. The same questionnaire was applied to tutors of 19, age-matched, female dogs with no history of breastcancer. The results revealed that most female dogs with neoplasia were over eight years of age, with no specific breed andwere not castrated, and 31.4% of them had already been administered with contraceptives during the reproductive period...(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)

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)

Occurrence of dental disorders in dogs

Background: The anatomy of the canine oral cavity and its variations should be understood to facilitate clinical and surgical approaches. Several conditions can be identified during inspection of the oral cavity, including persistent deciduous teeth, enamel hypoplasia, gingival retraction, tooth abrasion and mobility, absence of dental elements, and periodontal disease. The aim of the present study was to determine the occurrence of dental disorders in dogs older than one year, from the microrregion Ilhéus - Itabuna, Bahia, Brazil.Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 74 dogs were evaluated immediately prior to surgical procedures for periodontal disease treatment. After visual inspection and examination with a millimeter probe, the dogs were classified into three groups according to the degree of periodontal disease. All other findings were recorded on an odontogram. Of the 74 dogs, 23 were classified as mild periodontal disease (mean age, 3.6 years), 26 as moderate periodontal disease (mean age, 5.7 years), and 25 as severe periodontal disease (mean age, 9.7 years). There was significant correlation (0.7 p ≤ 0.01) between age and severity of periodontal disease. Fifteen of the 74 dogs did not present any other dental disorder than periodontal disease. Of the remaining 59, nine showed a single dental problem, and 50 had more than one dental problem. Six dogs (of the breeds Pinscher, Yorkshire Terrier, and Lhasa Apso) had deciduous teeth. Of the nine deciduous teeth, all were canine (dental elements 104, 204, and 304). Ten dogs had dental fractures and of the 11 fractured teeth, three were canine (dental elements 104 and 404). Dental wear was observed in 25 dogs (154 teeth). Of the evaluated dogs, seven showed furcation defects and 10 had teeth mobility. Dental absence was observed in 47 dogs.[...]

Occurrence of dental disorders in dogs

Background: The anatomy of the canine oral cavity and its variations should be understood to facilitate clinical and surgical approaches. Several conditions can be identified during inspection of the oral cavity, including persistent deciduous teeth, enamel hypoplasia, gingival retraction, tooth abrasion and mobility, absence of dental elements, and periodontal disease. The aim of the present study was to determine the occurrence of dental disorders in dogs older than one year, from the microrregion Ilhéus - Itabuna, Bahia, Brazil.Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 74 dogs were evaluated immediately prior to surgical procedures for periodontal disease treatment. After visual inspection and examination with a millimeter probe, the dogs were classified into three groups according to the degree of periodontal disease. All other findings were recorded on an odontogram. Of the 74 dogs, 23 were classified as mild periodontal disease (mean age, 3.6 years), 26 as moderate periodontal disease (mean age, 5.7 years), and 25 as severe periodontal disease (mean age, 9.7 years). There was significant correlation (0.7 p ≤ 0.01) between age and severity of periodontal disease. Fifteen of the 74 dogs did not present any other dental disorder than periodontal disease. Of the remaining 59, nine showed a single dental problem, and 50 had more than one dental problem. Six dogs (of the breeds Pinscher, Yorkshire Terrier, and Lhasa Apso) had deciduous teeth. Of the nine deciduous teeth, all were canine (dental elements 104, 204, and 304). Ten dogs had dental fractures and of the 11 fractured teeth, three were canine (dental elements 104 and 404). Dental wear was observed in 25 dogs (154 teeth). Of the evaluated dogs, seven showed furcation defects and 10 had teeth mobility. Dental absence was observed in 47 dogs.[...](AU)

Genetic variability of Leishmania infantum in naturally infected dogs in the state of Bahia, Brazil / Variabilidade genética de Leishmania infantum em cães naturalmente infectados no estado da Bahia, Brasil

In Brazil, Leishmania infantum mainly affects humans and dogs. The state of Bahia presents many dogs that are positive for this parasite. Despite the importance of epidemiology in this region, there are still very few studies that have assessed the genetic characteristics of L. infantum. The aim of this study is to investigate the genetic variability of L. infantum isolated identified in naturally infected dogs, in order to verify occurrence of subpopulation of this parasite in the different biomes existing in the state of Bahia. Thirty-two samples of L. infantum were analyzed, which were obtained isolated in dogs from the Mata Atlântica (rainforest), Caatinga (semi-arid scrub forest), and Cerrado (a vast tropical savannah eco-region) Bahia municipalities biomes. All animals presented with clinical changes suggestive of Leishmania spp. and they exhibited positive reactions to serological tests. kDNA analysis with RFLP markers revealed the presence of genetic variability and gene flow in subpopulations of L. infantum; samples from the Mata Atlântica areas were genetically more similar to those from the areas of Caatinga and they were less likely to resemble those of the Cerrado. This data may be used to investigate the dissemination of parasite in the canine population of state of Bahia.(AU)

No Brasil a Leishmania infantum afeta principalmente o homem e os cães. O estado da Bahia apresenta elevado número de cães positivos por este parasito. Apesar da importância epidemiologia para a região, ainda há poucos estudos que avaliam as características genéticas de L. infantum. Objetivou-se com este estudo investigar a variabilidade genética de cepas de L. infantum identificadas em cães naturalmente infectados, a fim de verificar a ocorrência de sobpopulações do parasito nos diferentes biomas existentes no estado da Bahia. Foram analisadas 32 amostras de L. infantum isoladas em cães de municípios baianos distribuídos nos biomas Mata Atlântica, Caatinga e Cerrado. Todos os animais apresentavam alterações clínicas sugestivas de Leishmania spp. e reação positiva em exames sorológicos. A análise do kDNA com marcadores RFLP revelaram a presença de variabilidade genética e fluxo gênico nas subpopulações de L. infantum sendo que as amostras das áreas de Mata Atlântica foram geneticamente mais semelhantes as das áreas de Caatinga e foram mais distantes daquelas oriundas do Cerrado. Estas informações podem auxiliar em investigações de dispersão do parasito na população canino do Estado da Bahia.(AU)

Index proposal for Nelore bulls classification using traits groups of weight, carcass and reproductive

Genetic breeding programs generally evaluate animals considering the same objectives, but the indices used in the selection criteria can vary. This can give rise to distinct bull rankings in each program. Thus, we aimed to create alternatives for the referral of bulls for mating through multivariate analyses. We used information from the summaries of two genetic evaluation programs (1 and 2) with Nellore bulls. Characteristics were separated into groups: weight, carcass and reproduction. Groups were formed using the mean Euclidean distance and the Tocher optimization method. The means of each trait among the animals allocated to the same group were used to compose the following subindexes: weight gain (siWG), carcass (siCG) and reproduction (siRG). Based on the mean of the group subindex classification, we calculated the average index of group classification (iAGc). When classifying the best groups by characteristics, we observed an increase (superiority of some bulls) in the estimated breeding values (EBVs) by comparison with the total number of bulls evaluated by the programs, selected animals and best 10 final indexes of the programs. There was a change in bull classification when using the iAGc in relation to the classification using the final indexes of the programs. The coefficient of simple coincidence showed that there was a change in bull classification between programs, both between deciles of the final indexes and groups of characteristics. The subindexes siWG, siCG and siRG are important for correcting specific problems inherds. The iAGc should be used instead of the final index of the programs, providing more options for the selection of bulls for mating.

Index proposal for Nelore bulls classification using traits groups of weight, carcass and reproductive

Genetic breeding programs generally evaluate animals considering the same objectives, but the indices used in the selection criteria can vary. This can give rise to distinct bull rankings in each program. Thus, we aimed to create alternatives for the referral of bulls for mating through multivariate analyses. We used information from the summaries of two genetic evaluation programs (1 and 2) with Nellore bulls. Characteristics were separated into groups: weight, carcass and reproduction. Groups were formed using the mean Euclidean distance and the Tocher optimization method. The means of each trait among the animals allocated to the same group were used to compose the following subindexes: weight gain (siWG), carcass (siCG) and reproduction (siRG). Based on the mean of the group subindex classification, we calculated the average index of group classification (iAGc). When classifying the best groups by characteristics, we observed an increase (superiority of some bulls) in the estimated breeding values (EBVs) by comparison with the total number of bulls evaluated by the programs, selected animals and best 10 final indexes of the programs. There was a change in bull classification when using the iAGc in relation to the classification using the final indexes of the programs. The coefficient of simple coincidence showed that there was a change in bull classification between programs, both between deciles of the final indexes and groups of characteristics. The subindexes siWG, siCG and siRG are important for correcting specific problems inherds. The iAGc should be used instead of the final index of the programs, providing more options for the selection of bulls for mating.(AU)

Canine ehrlichiosis: prevalence and epidemiology in northeast Brazil / Erliquiose canina: prevalência e epidemiologia no nordeste do Brasil

Ehrlichiosis is a zoonotic disease that is caused by bacteria of the genus Ehrlichia. The aims of this study were to detect the presence of Ehrlichia spp. in the blood of dogs in Ituberá, Bahia, and to compare the sensitivities and specificities of blood smear, serological, and molecular examinations. Furthermore, this study identified factors associated with exposure to the agent in dogs in this locality. Blood samples were collected from 379 dogs and submitted for indirect immunofluorescent assay and polymerase chain reaction testing for the detection of Ehrlichia spp. antibodies and DNA, respectively. Additionally, a peripheral blood smear was obtained from the ear tip for parasite identification. Of the 379 animals, 12.4%, 32.7%, and 25.6% were identified as positive on the blood smear, serological, and molecular tests, respectively. The dogs positive in one of the three techniques were considered exposed (46.9%). Younger dogs and rural habitat were protective factors and presence of ticks and contact with other dogs were the risk factors associated with exposure to the agent. It was concluded that dogs of Ituberá have high positivity for Ehrlichia spp. and that the diagnostic methods used for detection are complementary.(AU)

Erliquiose é uma doença zoonótica causada por bactérias do gênero Ehrlichia. O objetivo desse estudo foi detectar a presença de Ehrlichia spp. no sangue de cães em Ituberá-BA, e comparar as sensibilidades e especificidades do esfregaço sanguíneo, e testes sorológico e molecular. Além disso, esse estudo identificou fatores associados com a exposição ao agente em cães desta localidade. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas de 379 cães e submetidas à Reação de Imunofluorescência Indireta e Reação em Cadeia de Polimerase para detecção de anticorpos e DNA de Ehrlichia spp., respectivamente. Adicionalmente, sangue periférico de ponta de orelha foi coletado para identificação do parasita. Dos 379 animais, 12,4%, 32,7% e 25,6% foram identificados como positivos no esfregaço sanguíneo, teste sorológico e molecular, respectivamente. Cães positivos em uma das três técnicas foram considerados expostos (46,9%). Cães mais novos e hábitat rural foram fatores de proteção e presença de carrapatos e contato com outros cães foram os fatores de risco associados à exposição ao agente. Foi concluído que, os cães do município de Ituberá têm alta positividade para Ehrlichia spp. e que os diferentes métodos diagnósticos utilizados para sua detecção são complementares.(AU)

Bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis complex: diagnosis and evaluation of the risk factors from Bahia, Brazil / Complexo tristeza parasitária bovina: diagnóstico e avaliação dos fatores de risco na Bahia, Brasil

Direct diagnoses were made by using - blood smears and nested PCR (nPCR) tests on 309 blood samples from crossbred dairy cattle in the municipality of Ibicaraí, Bahia. From diagnostic blood smear slides, the observed parasitic frequencies were 31.1% for Anaplasma marginale and 20.4% for Babesia sp. From nPCR diagnoses, they were 63% for A. marginale, 34% for Babesia bigemina and 20.4% for Babesia bovis. There were significant differences (P <0.01) between the two diagnostic methods (nPCR and blood smear slides). The compliance obtained from the kappa test was 0.41 and 0.48 for A. marginale and Babesia sp., respectively. The tick samples from the six farms analyzed using nPCR were only positive for A. marginale. Evaluation of the risk factors relating to the presence of ticks and the age of the animals showed that there was a significant association (P <0.01) with the frequency of animals infected with both pathogens. Therefore, under the conditions studied, nPCR proved to be a good tool for diagnosing the agents of the bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis complex because of its sensitivity and specificity in comparison with blood smears. The municipality of Ibicaraí is an area with endemic prevalence of bovine babesiosis and anaplasmosis confirmed by nPCR and A. marginale is the main agent of the disease.

Realizou-se o diagnóstico direto por esfregaço sanguíneo e nested PCR (nPCR) em 309 amostras de sangue de bovinos mestiços leiteiros provenientes do município de Ibicaraí, Bahia. A frequência observada no diagnóstico por lâminas de esfregaço sanguíneo foi 31,1% para Anaplasma marginale e 20,4% para Babesia sp. Enquanto que no diagnóstico por nPCR foi 63% para A. marginale, 34% para Babesia bigemina e 20,4% Babesia bovis. Verificaram-se diferenças significativas (P<0,01) na comparação entre os dois métodos de diagnósticos (nPCR e esfregaço sanguíneo). A concordância ao teste KAPPA obtida foi de 0,41 e 0,48 para A. marginale e Babesia sp., respectivamente. As amostras de carrapatos das seis propriedades analisadas por nPCR foram positivas apenas para A. marginale. Na avaliação dos fatores de risco verificou-se que a presença de carrapato e idade dos animais apresentaram associação significativa (P<0,01) com a frequência de animais infectados por ambos os patógenos analisados por nPCR. Portanto, nas condições estudadas, a nPCR revelou-se uma boa ferramenta para diagnóstico dos agentes do complexo tristeza parasitária bovina (TPB) devido a sensibilidade e especificidade, quando comparado ao esfregaço sanguíneo. O município de Ibicaraí apresenta-se como uma área endêmica para TPB com prevalência comprovada através de nPCR e, A. marginale o principal agente encontrado.

Investigação molecular de Leptospira spp em rins de bovinos / Molecular Research of Leptospira spp in Kidneys of Cattle

Background: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic bacterial disease caused by Leptospira spp. that affects wild and domestic animals and humans. It has a worldwide distribution and causes public health problems and economic losses in livestock. The genus Leptospira is divided basically into two species: the Leptospira interrogans that is pathogenic and Leptospira biflexa that is considered saprobic. Cattle are an important source of infection, mainly to humans who work with these animals such as breeders, cowboys, slaughtermen, veterinarians and agricultural technicians. The temperature and rainfall indices of tropical and subtropical climate regions encourage the continuing disease outbreaks. In humans the symptoms are headache, fever, myalgia, nausea and vomiting. The identification of the disease is possible with some tests such as ELISA, immunofluorescence, bacterial culture, and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). The aim of this work was to perform the molecular research for the presence of Leptospira spp. in kidneys of cattle refuted at a slaughterhouse. Materials, Methods & Results: Two hundred fragments of cattle kidney were collected at slaughterhouse located at Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil. The macroscopic kidney refutation causes were nefritis, presence of cysts, congestion and presence of whitening and hemorrhagic areas. The kidney samples were placed in plastic containers identified and packed in an isothermal box until arrival at the laboratory, where they were kept at -20°C until the DNA extraction with phenol/chloroform/ isoamyl alcohol (25:24:1). The DNA was quantified by spectrophotometer at 260 nm wavelength. The integrity of DNA was evaluated with 1% agarose gel stained with ethidium bromide and visualized at an ultraviolet light transilluminator. DNA amplification was performed with primers G1- [forward] 5'-CTGAATCGCTGTATAAAAGT-3' and G2- [reverse] 5'-GGAAAACAAATGGTCGGAAG-3' for pathogenic and non-pathogenic Leptospira. Aliquots of 50 ng/µL of extracted DNA were used for PCR reaction. Out of 200 tissue samples, 16 (8%) were positive and the amplified fragments had molecular weight compatible with Leptospira spp. Discussion: The amplicons presented molecular weight compatible with pathogenic and non-pathogenic strains of Leptospira spp. wich may represent a health risk for the ones who may contact animals or consume uncoocked products. Leptospira molecular diagnose may allow the pathogen identification in asymptomatic animals from small DNA amounts. Primers G1 and G2 amplified bacterial 16S rRNA gene area, allowing the identification. The renal tissue alterations identified during inspection, may be associated with Leptospira spp. presence showing the fundamental importance of correct identification and discard of affected organs in order to reduce the bacterial transmission risk. Many articles have being showing the Leptospira cattle prevalence and human risks by contacting these animals. The results presented in this article emphasizes the importance of the cattle as possible transmitters of the pathogen for slaughterhouses workers and meat inspectors, veterinarians as well as rural workers and their families, being critical to conduct orientation and conscientization programs about the problem and ways to combat and control it.

Risk factors and clinical disorders of canine ehrlichiosis in the South of Bahia, Brazil / Fatores de risco e alterações clínicas da erhlichiose canina no Sul da Bahia, Brasil

The aim of this work was to study the clinical disorders and risk factors of canine ehrlichiosis in Ilhéus and Itabuna, Bahia, and compare different diagnostic methods. Blood samples were collected from 200 dogs. Each dog was clinically examined. A questionnaire was used to evaluate the risk factors. The blood samples were analyzed using the Dot-ELISA test; hematometry, platelet counts and searches for morulae on blood smears were performed. Nested PCR was carried out on 50 serologically positive samples and 50 negative samples. Three positive PCRs were sequenced. Thirty-six percent were serologically positivity and 5.5 percent from blood smears. The animals were anemic and thrombocytopenic. Presence of ticks and living in areas on the urban periphery were considered to be risk factors (p < 0.05). Nested PCR identified 11 positive dogs of which nine were serologically positive and two were negative. The DNA sequencing was consistent with the presence of Ehrlichia canis.(AU)

Objetivou-se com este trabalho estudar as alterações clínicas, fatores de risco da ehrlichiose canina nos municípios de Ilhéus e Itabuna, Bahia, e comparar diferentes métodos de diagnóstico. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas de 200 cães e cada animal foi examinado clinicamente. Foi preenchido um questionário para avaliar os fatores de risco. As amostras de sangue foram analisadas pelo teste Dot-ELISA e foram realizadas hematimetria, contagem de plaquetas e procura de mórulas em esfregaço de sangue. Nested-PCR foi realizada em 50 amostras positivas e 50 negativas na sorologia. Três amostras PCRs positivas foram seqüenciadas. Foi encontrado 36,0 por cento de positividade na sorologia e 5,5 por cento nos esfregaços sanguíneos. Os animais apresentavam anemia e trombocitopenia. Ter carrapatos e residir em áreas suburbanas foram considerados fatores de risco (p < 0,05). A Nested-PCR identificou 11 cães positivos, sendo 9 com sorologia positiva e 2 negativos. O sequenciamento de DNA foi compatível com a presença de Ehrlichia canis.(AU)

Evaluation of the prophylactic action of veterinary dental gel containing Aloe vera and green tea on calculus formation in dogs submitted to periodontal treatment

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of veterinary dental gel containing Aloe vera and green tea, with and without a water additive in preventing calculus formation in dogs after all animals were initially submitted to periodontal treatment. The preventive treatment was performed on 72 dogs, which 24 received treatment with the veterinary dental gel (G1), 24 received treatment with the gel associated with a water additive (G2), and 24 dogs did not receive any treatment (G3). The animals also were subdivided into three groups according to their diet. The gel was applied directly to the dogs' teeth and 500 ml of the additive was added to the water, three times a week. The animals' teeth were photographed every 30 days to observe the time of new deposition of dental calculus. The images were analyzed by MATLAB. The dogs in G1 showed average of new accumulation of dental calculus of 254.8 days, those in G2 also showed an average return of 258.6 days, and G3 showed an average return of 156.7 days. There was a statistical difference between G1 - G3 (p-value = 0,000007885) and G2 - G3 (p-value = 0,00004568). There was no statistical difference between the different food groups. We concluded that the gel used in this study, associated or not with the water additive, was effective in helping to maintain the dental health of the animals for a prolonged period after the surgic