Epidemiological aspects of cattle tick fever in Brazil / Aspectos epidemiológicos da tristeza parasitária bovina no Brasil

The present work reviews the epidemiologic situation of Anaplasma marginale and Babesia spp. infections and the occurrence of cattle tick fever outbreaks in Brazil. In areas of tick fever enzootic instability, environmental conditions interfere with the development of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus: chilly winter in the southern region, floods in the Pantanal, and low humidity in the Caatinga. In contrast, the climatic conditions of stable zones (Cerrado, Amazon and Atlantic Forest biomes) favor tick development. In enzootic areas, tick fever is uncommon because the animals are in frequent contact with the parasite, acquiring immunity naturally during the period of innate resistance; however, outbreaks may occur when calves become infested by considerable numbers of infected ticks during this period or in adults raised in tick-free environments that become infested for the first time when transporting to stable areas. It is necessary to better understand the disease's risk factors under stable conditions and the implications of the mechanical and other vector transmission of A. marginale. To prevent tick fever outbreaks in Brazil, it is important to develop and use anaplasmosis and babesiosis vaccines in cattle from enzootic unstable regions, especially when animals are moved to stable areas.(AU)

O presente trabalho revisa a situação epidemiológica das infecções por Anaplasma marginale e Babesia spp. e a ocorrência de surtos de Tristeza parasitária bovina (TPB) no Brasil. Em áreas de instabilidade enzoótica, as condições ambientais interferem no desenvolvimento do Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus: o frio do inverno na região Sul; as inundações no Pantanal; e a baixa umidade na Caatinga. Por outra parte, as condições climáticas das zonas de estabilidade (os biomas Cerrado, Amazônia e Mata Atlântica) favorecem o desenvolvimento do carrapato. A TPB não é comum nas áreas estáveis, porque os animais estão em contato frequente com os parasitas, adquirindo imunidade naturalmente. Podem, porém, ocorrer surtos quando um número considerável de carrapatos infectados infesta bezerros, durante o período de resistência inata, ou quando adultos que foram criados em ambientes livres de carrapatos infestam-se, pela primeira vez, ao serem transportados para áreas estáveis. É necessário entender melhor os fatores de risco da doença em condições de estabilidade e a implicação da transmissão de A. marginale de forma mecânica, ou por meio de vetores diferentes do carrapato. Para prevenir surtos de TPB, no Brasil, é necessário desenvolver e usar vacinas em bovinos de regiões de instabilidade, especialmente antes de transportá-los para áreas estáveis.(AU)

Dogs naturally infected by Rangelia vitalii, Babesia canis vogeli, and Ehrlichia canis in São Paulo, Brazil / Cães naturalmente infectados por Rangelia vitalii, Babesia canis vogeli, e Ehrlichia canis em São Paulo, Brasil

Several agents can cause hemoparasitic diseases in dogs, and blood-sucking arthropods transmit these diseases. These agents can cause several clinical manifestations and, in some cases, can kill the host. Because these agents are essential in animal health, this study aims to detect the frequency of Ehrlichia canis, Rickettsia rickettsii, Anaplasma platys, and Rangelia vitalii by real-time PCR and Babesia vogeli in dogs in the southern region of the city of São Paulo, São Paulo. Of the 98 dog samples, 18 (18.4%) tested positive with real-time polymerase chain reaction for at least one studied agent. Of these 18 samples, 17 tested positive for a single agent (11.2% for B. canis vogeli, 1.02% for R. vitalii, and 5.1% for E. canis), and one showed co-infection with B. canis vogeli and R. vitalii. The results demonstrate the presence of hemoparasites in the studied animals, which can influence the quality and life expectancy of these animals. The Rangeliadetection warns small animal clinicians to include it as a differential diagnosis for hemoparasitosis.(AU)

As hemoparasitoses em cães podem ser causadas por diversos agentes, sendo essas doenças transmitidas por artrópodes hematófagos. Esses agentes podem causar diversas manifestações clínicas e, em alguns casos, podem matar o hospedeiro. Este estudo teve como objetivo detectar por PCR em tempo real a frequência de Ehrlichia canis, Rickettsia rickettsii, Anaplasma platys, Rangelia vitalii e Babesia canis vogeli em amostras de cães da zona sul da cidade de São Paulo, Brasil. Das 98 amostras de cães, 18 (18,4%) testaram positivo com reação em cadeia da polimerase em tempo real para pelo menos um agente estudado. Destas 18 amostras, 17 testaram positivo para um único agente (11,2% para B. canis vogeli, 1,02% para R. vitalii e 5,1% para E. canis), e uma apresentou coinfecção com B. canis vogeli e R. vitalii. Os resultados demonstram a presença de hemoparasitas nos animais estudados, o que pode influenciar a qualidade e a expectativa de vida desses animais. Além disso, é o primeiro relato da detecção de R. vitalli na zona sul de São Paulo e serve de alerta para os clínicos de pequenos animais incluírem esse agente como diagnóstico diferencial para as hemoparasitoses.(AU)

Association between chronic Anaplasma marginale and Babesia spp. infection and hematological parameters of taurine heifers / Associação entre infecção crônica por Anaplasma marginale e Babesia spp. e parâmetros hematológicos de novilhas taurinas

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between chronic Anaplasma marginale and Babesia spp. infection and hematological parameters of pregnant and non-pregnant taurine heifers. Blood samples from 94 females were collected on the first day (D-10) of timed artificial insemination (TAI) protocol and on pregnancy diagnosis (D+34). Hematological parameters were determined and compared between pregnant (PG) and non-pregnant (NPG) heifers, and within group at different sampling days. Real-time PCR (qPCR) was used to determine A. marginale and Babesia bovis infection, and for absolute quantification of Babesia spp. between PG and NPG groups. Correlation analysis was performed between the number of gDNA copies (CN) of Babesia spp. and hematological parameters. On D-10, mean hemoglobin concentration was higher for NPG, and hematocrit and total plasma protein were higher on D+34 for both groups. There was no difference in Babesia spp. CN between groups. In the first qPCR, all heifers were positive for A. marginale and B. bovis. Significant correlations were found between hemoglobin and erythrocyte and between hemoglobin and hematocrit (r = 0.8082 and r = 0.3009, respectively). Low levels of A. marginale and Babesia spp. did not affect hematological parameters of chronically infected pregnant and non-pregnant taurine heifers.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a associação entre infecção crônica por Anaplasma marginale e Babesia spp. e parâmetros hematológicos de novilhas taurinas prenhes e não prenhes. Sangue de 94 fêmeas foi coletado no primeiro dia (D-10) do protocolo de inseminação artificial em tempo fixo (IATF) e no diagnóstico de gestação (D+34). Parâmetros hematológicos foram comparados entre novilhas prenhes (PG) e não prenhes (NPG) e dentro dos grupos entre dias de coleta. Usando-se PCR em tempo real (qPCR), determinou-se a infecção por A. marginale e Babesia bovis e quantificação absoluta de Babesia spp. Entre os grupos PG e NPG. A análise de correlação foi realizada entre o número de cópias (CN) de Babesia spp. e parâmetros hematológicos. No D-10, a concentração de hemoglobina foi maior para NPG e hematócrito, e proteína plasmática total foram maiores em D+34 para ambos os grupos. Não houve diferença para CN de Babesia spp. entre os grupos. Na primeira qPCR, todas as novilhas foram positivas para A. marginale e B. bovis. Correlações significativas foram encontradas entre hemoglobina/eritrócito e hemoglobina/hematócrito (r=0,8082 e r=0,3009, respectivamente). Baixos níveis de A. marginale e Babesia spp. não afetaram os parâmetros hematológicos de novilhas taurinas prenhes e não prenhes cronicamente infectadas.(AU)

Unusual parasitism site of Dermacentor nitens (Acari: Ixodidae) on a horse / Parasitismo em local incomum de Dermacentor nitens (Acari: Ixodidae) em um cavalo

ABSTRACT: Dermacentor nitens Neumann is the most common tick species infesting horses in the main Brazilian biomes. It has a predilection to attach to horse the ears, the nasal diverticulum, perineal and perianal regions. The infestations can generate severe damage in the ears, anemia, and the tick also acts as vector of Babesia caballi (Nuttall and Strickland), the causative agent of equine babesiosis. Our study describes unusual parasitism site of D. nitens on a female cross breed horse, approximately ten years old that presented high parasitism by ticks on the perineal and perianal region, ears, and the left eye orbit region, where an enucleation process had been performed a few years earlier. To our knowledge this is the first report of D. nitens parasitism on a formerly enucleated eye orbit.

RESUMO: Dermacentor nitens Neumann é a espécie de carrapato mais comum infestando equinos nos principais biomas brasileiros. Tem predileção por se fixar ao cavalo nas orelhas, divertículo nasal, e nas regiões perineal e perianal. As infestações podem gerar danos severos nas orelhas, anemia, e o carrapato também atua como vetor de Babesia caballi (Nuttall and Strickland), agente causador da babesiose equina. Nosso estudo descreve um local de parasitismo incomum de D. nitens em uma égua mestiça de aproximadamente dez anos de idade, que apresentou alto parasitismo por carrapatos nas regiões perineal e perianal, orelhas e região da órbita do olho esquerdo, onde havia sido realizado processo de enucleação alguns anos anteriores. Para o nosso conhecimento, este é o primeiro relato de parasitismo de D. nitens em uma órbita ocular anteriormente enucleada.

Unusual parasitism site of Dermacentor nitens (Acari: Ixodidae) on a horse / Parasitismo em local incomum de Dermacentor nitens (Acari: Ixodidae) em um cavalo

Dermacentor nitens Neumann is the most common tick species infesting horses in the main Brazilian biomes. It has a predilection to attach to horse the ears, the nasal diverticulum, perineal and perianal regions. The infestations can generate severe damage in the ears, anemia, and the tick also acts as vector of Babesia caballi (Nuttall and Strickland), the causative agent of equine babesiosis. Our study describes unusual parasitism site of D. nitens on a female cross breed horse, approximately ten years old that presented high parasitism by ticks on the perineal and perianal region, ears, and the left eye orbit region, where an enucleation process had been performed a few years earlier. To our knowledge this is the first report of D. nitens parasitism on a formerly enucleated eye orbit.

Dermacentor nitens Neumann é a espécie de carrapato mais comum infestando equinos nos principais biomas brasileiros. Tem predileção por se fixar ao cavalo nas orelhas, divertículo nasal, e nas regiões perineal e perianal. As infestações podem gerar danos severos nas orelhas, anemia, e o carrapato também atua como vetor de Babesia caballi (Nuttall and Strickland), agente causador da babesiose equina. Nosso estudo descreve um local de parasitismo incomum de D. nitens em uma égua mestiça de aproximadamente dez anos de idade, que apresentou alto parasitismo por carrapatos nas regiões perineal e perianal, orelhas e região da órbita do olho esquerdo, onde havia sido realizado processo de enucleação alguns anos anteriores. Para o nosso conhecimento, este é o primeiro relato de parasitismo de D. nitens em uma órbita ocular anteriormente enucleada.

Diagnosis of transmissible venereal tumors in bitches - platelet indices are a remarkable marker?

Background: Hematological analyses are seen as more preferred laboratory analyses in canine transmissible venereal tumor studies. There is no information about the availability of platelets and their indices in routine practice in canine transmissible venereal tumor cases. Taking this as a starting point, this study analyzed the usefulness of platelet indices in dogs with transmissible venereal tumor in clinical laboratory diagnosis as well as examined the relationship between white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets (PLT), main platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), plateletcrit (PCT), and the ratio of main platelet volume to platelets (MPV/PLT). Materials, Methods & Results: In the study, a total of 42 bitches of various breeds were used. Nineteen healthy bitches were used as a control group, and the others 23 with cTVT as a study group. Metastasis was not observed in any of the bitches involved in the study. History, clinical findings, and cytological examinations were evaluated for the diagnosis of cTVT. In animals with hemorrhagic discharge and neoplastic lesions, a vaginal cytological examination was performed. Typical TVT cells with large nuclei and intracytoplasmic vacuoles were observed in the vaginal cytological examinations, and the diagnosis of TVT was made. Healthy bitches (19) and those with TVT (23) were 39.16 5.37 months and 47.61 5.14 months old, respectively. From all animals, 2 mL blood samples were collected from V. cephalica to evaluate PIs in the complete blood count (CBC). Collected blood samples were analyzed using an automated hematology analyzer. As a result of the analysis, WBC, RBC, HGB, HCT, MCV, MCHC, RDW, PLT, MPV, PDW, PCT, and MPV/PLT data were obtained. Mild leukocytosis, an increase in PLT, and a decrease in MCV and MPV/PLT were determined in the study group compared to the control group. Cut-off values in CBC of bitches with TVT were determined as WBC: 13.35 (sensitivity: 78%; specificity: 90%); MCV: 67 (sensitivity: 57%; specificity: 95%); PLT: 315.50 (sensitivity: 65%; specificity: 74%); and MPV/PLT: 0.028 (sensitivity: 78%; specificity: 58%). In CBC analyses, a strong negative correlation between PLT and MPV/PLT was detected in both groups. Discussion: Canine transmissible venereal tumors are common in both stray and pet dogs. It is naturally transferred from animal to animal during mating by live tumor cells. This tumor can commonly affect the external genitalia and internal organs in some cases. It generally has the look of cauliflower, and its surface is ulcerated, inflammatory, hemorrhagic, and infectious. More preferred laboratory analyses are complete blood count and blood chemistry analysis in cTVT for to evaluate the success of treatments. Platelet indices have been investigated in many diseases such as endotoxemia, chronic enteropathy, mammary tumor, parvoviral enteritis, septic peritonitis, lymphoma, pyometra, visceral leishmaniasis, and babesiosis in dogs. There is no information available for either diagnostic or prognostic use of the PIs in canine TVT cases. Ultimately, in light of the presented study's results, platelet indices, especially PLT and the MPV/PLT ratio, seem to be notable laboratory markers in terms of easy accessibility and low-cost assessment techniques in canine transmissible venereal tumor cases. New data, however, should be established by a thorough follow-up study using a larger sample size and addressing its usefulness as a diagnostic or prognostic marker in canine transmissible venereal tumors.

Babesiose: um ponto de vista diagnóstico: relato de caso / Babesiosis: a diagnostic point of view - case report

A babesiose canina é uma doença transmitida pela picada de carrapatos, como o Rhipicephalus sanguineus, vetor de Babesia vogeli, um hemoprotozoário de extrema importância na Medicina Veterinária. Esse protozoário parasita os eritrócitos, levando a uma hemólise. O animal infectado pode apresentar febre, letargia, anorexia, anemia, mucosas pálidas ou ictéricas, hematúria e hepatoesplenomegalia. O diagnóstico presuntivo da babesiose canina pode se basear em histórico, anamnese ou exame físico, porém a confirmação é obtida por meio do exame parasitológico. Durante o atendimento, um cão, macho, cinco anos, boxer, apresentou apatia, hiporexia, hematúria, hipertermia. Para confirmação de diagnóstico foram solicitados os exames complementares: hemograma, alanina aminotransferase e creatinina. A única alteração encontrada foi diminuição de plaquetas, porém no esfregaço sanguíneo foram observadas estruturas de Babesia sp. livres e parasitando hemácias.(AU)

Canine babesiosis is a disease transmitted through tick bites, such as Rhipicephalus sanguineus, vector of Babesia vogeli, a hemoprotozoan of extreme importance in Veterinary Medicine. This protozoan parasites erythrocytes leading to hemolysis. The infected animal may have fever, lethargy, anorexia, anemia, pale or jaundiced mucous membranes, hematuria and hepatosplenomegaly. The presumptive diagnosis of babesiosis can be based on history, anamnesis or physical examination, but the confirmation is obtained through parasitological examination. During the service, a male dog, five years old, boxer, presented apathy, hyporexia, hematuria, hyperthermia. To confirm the diagnosis, a complete blood count, alanine aminotransferase and creatinine were requested. The only alteration found was a decrease in platelets, however, in the blood smear, Babesia sp. were detected free and parasitizing red blood cells.(AU)

Natural infection of Trypanosoma sp. in domestic sheep from Ecuador / Infecção natural do Trypanosoma sp. em ovelhas domésticas do Equador

Trypanosomosis in sheep is a hemoparasitic disease of worldwide interest due to its effects on the health of animals and the economic impact on producers, is caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma sp. In the present study, the occurrence of Trypanosoma sp. in sheep from the urban-rural area of the canton Salitre was determined, through an applied study with a qualitative descriptive prospective cross-sectional approach, carried out between October 1, 2019, and February 19, 2020. Blood samples were extracted from the jugular vein and analyzed by the blood smear method using the Giemsa and Diff-Quick staining techniques. Previously, in a first study realized between 2018 and 2019, 2 cases (2%) of Trypanosoma sp., 1 case of Babesia sp. (1%), and 4 cases of Anaplasma marginale (4%) were identified, but without the presence of symptoms of the disease. However, in this new research study, of 170 animals sampled from 5 herds and aged between 3 and 8 years, 34 (20%) were positive for Trypanosoma sp., 6 for Babesia sp. (3.52%) and 6 for A. marginale (3.52%) with coinfection between them. In this research, deteriorated clinical aspects and low hematological values were also determined in positive animals; besides of the total of positive cases, 25 presented symptoms of hemoparasitic disease, 3 sheep had abortions and 8 died. The results of this study showed that Trypanosoma sp. could already become an endemic parasitosis in sheep in the country, representing a serious problem of animal health.

A tripanossomose em ovinos é uma doença hemoparasitária de interesse mundial devido a seus efeitos sobre a saúde dos animais e o impacto econômico sobre os produtores, Esta doença é causada pelo protozoário Trypanosoma sp. No presente estudo, foi determinada a ocorrência de Trypanosoma sp. em ovelhas da área urbano-rural do Cantão Salitre, através de um estudo aplicado com uma abordagem transversal descritiva qualitativa prospectiva, realizado entre dia primeiro de outubro de 2019, à 19 de fevereiro de 2020. Amostras de sangue foram extraídas da veia jugular e analisadas pelo método de esfregaço de sangue usando as técnicas de coloração Giemsa e Diff-Quick. Anteriormente, em um primeiro estudo realizado entre 2018 e 2019, dois casos (2%) de Trypanosoma sp., foram identificados um caso de Babesia sp. (1%), e quatro casos de Anaplasma marginale (4%), mas sem a presença de sintomas da doença. Entretanto, neste novo estudo de pesquisa, de 170 animais amostrados de cinco rebanhos e com idades entre três e oito anos, 34 (20%) foram positivos para Trypanosoma sp., seis para Babesia sp. (3,52%) e seis para A. marginale (3,52%) com coinfecção entre eles. Nesta pesquisa, aspectos clínicos deteriorados e baixos valores hematológicos também foram determinados em animais positivos; além do total de casos positivos, 25 apresentaram sintomas de doença hemoparasítica, três ovelhas tiveram abortos e oito morreram. Os resultados deste estudo mostram que o Trypanosoma sp. já poderia se tornar uma parasitose endêmica em ovinos no país, representando um grave problema de saúde animal.

Outbreak of bovine tick-borne disease on a riverside property in the Western Amazonia: Case report / Surto de tristeza parasitária bovina em propriedade ribeirinha na Amazônia Ocidental: Relato de caso

The objective was to report an outbreak of tick-borne disease (TBD) on riverside property in the Western Amazon. The death of 25 Nellore cattle was reported on a rural property on the banks of the Purus River, state of Acre. The producer observed animals with staggering walking, drop in productivity, weight loss and evolution to death in approximately 30 days. Fifteen animals from the same batch were selected for clinical evaluation and the ear tip was punctured for hemoparasite research, in addition to blood collection for hematological, biochemical and molecular evaluation. The main laboratory findings were leukocytosis, thrombocytopenia, hypoproteinemia, elevated creatine kinase and reduced urea, creatinine and albumin, as well as visualization of forms suggestive of Anaplasma spp. in 13.33% of the samples. Through PCR, 20% positivity was observed for Anaplasmamarginale and 53.33% for Babesia sp. Hematological and biochemical changes, although highly suggestive, may suffer changes from other factors not related to TBD. Therefore, the presumptive identification of the etiological agent in the blood or confirmatory by molecular methods is essential in the diagnosis. Depending on the stage of the disease, low parasitemia occurs, making it difficult to see hemoparasites in blood smears. The Babesia sp. was the main agent of the outbreak of TBD in the population evaluated, which, when associated with early clinical and laboratory diagnosis, results in adequate therapeutic direction and prophylactic measures, promoting a balance between host, agent and vector.

Objetivou-se relatar um surto de tristeza parasitária bovina (TPB) em propriedade ribeirinha na Amazônia Ocidental. Foi notificado o óbito de 25 bovinos da raça Nelore, em uma propriedade rural às margens do rio Purus, estado do Acre. O produtor observou animais com andar cambaleante, queda na produtividade, perda de peso e evolução ao óbito em aproximadamente 30 dias. Quinze animais do mesmo lote foram selecionados para avaliação clínica e foi procedida a punção a ponta de orelha para pesquisa de hemoparasitos, além da coleta de sangue para avaliação hematológica, bioquímica e molecular. Os principais achados laboratoriais foram anemia, leucocitose, trombocitopenia, hipoproteinemia, elevação da creatina quinase e redução de ureia, creatinina e albumina, além da visualização de formas sugestivas de Anaplasma spp. em 13,33% das amostras. Por meio da PCR, foi observado 20% de positividade para Anaplasma marginale e 53,33% para Babesia sp. As alterações hematológicas e bioquímicas, embora bastante sugestivas, podem sofrer alterações de outros fatores não relacionados à TPB. Por isso, a identificação presuntiva do agente etiológico no sangue ou confirmatória por métodos moleculares é essencial no diagnóstico. A depender da fase da doença, ocorre baixa parasitemia, dificultando a visualização de hemoparasitos em esfregaços sanguíneos. A Babesia sp. foi o principal agente do surto de TPB na população avaliada, que, quando associado ao diagnóstico clínico e laboratorial precoce, resulta no direcionamento terapêutico adequado e medidas profiláticas, promovendo uma relação de equilíbrio entre hospedeiro, agente e vetor.

Ocorrência de Babesia sp, Ehrlichia canis e Hepatozoon canis em cães domiciliados, em dois municípios do estado do Espírito Santo - Brasil / Occurrence of Babesia sp, Ehrlichia canis and Hepatozoon canis in domiciled dogs in two municipalities of the state of Espírito Santo - Brazil / Ocurrencia de Babesia sp, Ehrlichia canis y Hepatozoon canis em perros domiciliados em dos municipios del estado de Espírito Santo - Brasil

As doenças transmitidas por carrapatos são afecções de grande importância na clínica médica de pequenos animais, devido à alta casuística e ampla distribuição vetorial no território brasileiro. Os principais agentes responsáveis pelas infecções em cães são Babesia sp., Ehrlichia canis e Hepatozoon canis. Os animais infectados são assintomáticos ou apresentam sinais clínicos inespecíficos, sendo necessário a utilização de testes diagnósticos para definição do agente etiológico, e diagnóstico seguro. O objetivo do presente estudo foi determinar a ocorrência desses micro-organismos em cães naturalmente infectados, domiciliados nos municípios de Vila Velha e Anchieta, Espírito Santo, utilizando diferentes testes de detecção: Reação em cadeia polimerase (PCR), sorologia para detecção de anticorpos anti Ehrlichia canis e pesquisa de hematozoários em esfregaço sanguíneo. Foram analisadas 65 amostras de sangue obtidas por venopunção de veia cefálica de cães. No teste de PCR, 4,62% dos animais foram positivos para Babesia vogeli e 1,54% para Ehrlichia canis sendo os resultados para Hepatozoon canis negativos. No teste sorológico para E. canis 90,77% dos animais foram positivos para a presença de anticorpos, e na pesquisa em lâminas de esfregaço sanguíneo 3,02% apresentavam outros hemoparasitas. Os resultados indicam a dispersão desses hemoparasitas na população canina da região de estudo, entretanto com baixa ocorrência. O teste de PCR demonstrou-se como o mais sensível no qual Babesia vogeli foi o agente mais observado.(AU)

Tick-borne diseases are diseases of great importance in the medical practice of small animals, due to the high casuistry and wide vectorial distribution in the Brazilian territory. The main agents responsible for infections in dogs are Babesia sp., Ehrlichia canis and Hepatozoon canis. Infected animals are asymptomatic or present nonspecific clinical signs, requiring the use of diagnostic tests to define the etiologic agent, and safe diagnosis. The objective of the present study was to determine the occurrence of these microorganisms in naturally infected dogs domiciled in the municipalities of Vila Velha and Anchieta, Espírito Santo, using different detection tests: polymerase chain reaction (PCR), serology to detect antibodies against Ehrlichia canis and research of hematozoa in blood smears. Sixty-five blood samples obtained by venipuncture of the cephalic vein of dogs were analyzed. In the PCR test, 4.62% of the animals were positive for Babesia vogeli and 1.54% for Ehrlichia canis, and the results for Hepatozoon canis were negative. In the serological test for E. canis, 90.77% of the animals were positive for the presence of antibodies, and in the research in blood smear slides, 3.02% presented other hemoparasites. The results indicate the dispersion of these hemoparasites in the canine population of the study region, however with low occurrence. The PCR test proved to be the most sensitive, in which Babesia vogeli was the most observed agent.(AU)

Las enfermedades transmitidas por garrapatas son enfermedades de gran importancia en la práctica médica de los pequeños animales, debido a la alta casuística y amplia distribución vectorial en el territorio brasileño. Los principales agentes responsables de las infecciones en los perros son Babesia sp., Ehrlichia canis y Hepatozoon canis. Los animales infectados son asintomáticos o presentan signos clínicos inespecíficos, siendo necesario el uso de pruebas diagnósticas para la definición del agente etiológico, y el diagnóstico seguro. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la ocurrencia de estos microorganismos en perros infectados naturalmente, domiciliados en los municipios de Vila Velha y Anchieta, Espírito Santo, utilizando diferentes pruebas de detección: reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR), serología para detectar anticuerpos anti Ehrlichia canis e investigación de hematozoos en frotis de sangre. Se analizaron sesenta y cinco muestras de sangre obtenidas por venopunción de la vena cefálica de los perros. En la prueba PCR, el 4,62% de los animales fueron positivos para Babesia vogeli y el 1,54% para Ehrlichia canis, y los resultados para Hepatozoon canis fueron negativos. En la prueba serológica para E. canis, el 90,77% de los animales fueron positivos a la presencia de anticuerpos, y en la investigación en láminas de frotis de sangre el 3,02% presentaron otros hemoparásitos. Los resultados indican la dispersión de estos hemoparásitos en la población canina de la región de estudio, aunque con una baja presencia. La prueba PCR resultó ser la más sensible, en la que Babesia vogeli fue el agente más observado.(AU)

An atypical case of Babesia bigemina parasitising a dog from a rural area of eastern Mexico / Um caso atípico de Babesia bigemina parasitando um cão de uma área rural do leste do México

A dog that shared habitat with domestic animals in a cattle farm and that was exposed to wildlife was taken to a private practitioner for clinical examination. The analyses conducted on the patient revealed the presence of Babesia bigemina by a molecular test. Clinical signs such as lethargy, anorexia and hyperthermia > 39 °C, pale mucous membranes and blood urine were observed in the patient. The animal was treated with imidocarb dipropionate (two doses each 0.5 ml/10 kg b.w. at an interval of 14 days). On treatment day 7, the clinical signs were mostly reduced. On day 30, PCR was carried out to assess the efficacy of the treatment, with a negative result. This case represents the first report of babesiosis due to B. bigemina in a dog living on a cattle farm in Mexico. It indicates the lower host specify of these pathogens and that dogs can play a role as sentinels of vector-borne parasites in livestock animals.(AU)

Um cão que compartilhava hábitat com animais domésticos em uma fazenda de gado e que foi exposto à vida selvagem foi levado a um clínico particular para que fosse examinado. As análises realizadas no paciente revelaram a presença de Babesia bigemina por um teste molecular. Sinais clínicos, como letargia, anorexia e hipertermia > 39°C, mucosas pálidas e sangue na urina foram observados no paciente. O animal foi tratado com dipropionato de imidocarb (duas doses cada 0,5 ml/10 kg de peso corporal em um intervalo de 14 dias). No dia de tratamento 7, os sinais clínicos foram reduzidos. No dia 30, foi realizada PCR para avaliar a eficácia do tratamento, com resultado negativo. Esse caso representa o primeiro relato de babesiose por B. bigemina em um cão que vive em uma fazenda de gado no México. Isso indica que o hospedeiro inferior especifica esses patógenos, e que os cães podem desempenhar um papel como sentinelas de parasitas transmitidos por vetores em animais de criação.(AU)

Ocorrência de Babesia sp, Ehrlichia canis e Hepatozoon canis em cães domiciliados, em dois municípios do estado do Espírito Santo - Brasil / Occurrence of Babesia sp, Ehrlichia canis and Hepatozoon canis in domiciled dogs in two municipalities of the state of Espírito Santo - Brazil / Ocurrencia de Babesia sp, Ehrlichia canis y Hepatozoon canis em perros domiciliados em dos municipios del estado de Espírito Santo - Brasil

As doenças transmitidas por carrapatos são afecções de grande importância na clínica médica de pequenos animais, devido à alta casuística e ampla distribuição vetorial no território brasileiro. Os principais agentes responsáveis pelas infecções em cães são Babesia sp., Ehrlichia canis e Hepatozoon canis. Os animais infectados são assintomáticos ou apresentam sinais clínicos inespecíficos, sendo necessário a utilização de testes diagnósticos para definição do agente etiológico, e diagnóstico seguro. O objetivo do presente estudo foi determinar a ocorrência desses micro-organismos em cães naturalmente infectados, domiciliados nos municípios de Vila Velha e Anchieta, Espírito Santo, utilizando diferentes testes de detecção: Reação em cadeia polimerase (PCR), sorologia para detecção de anticorpos anti Ehrlichia canis e pesquisa de hematozoários em esfregaço sanguíneo. Foram analisadas 65 amostras de sangue obtidas por venopunção da veia cefálica. No teste de PCR, 4,62% dos animais foram positivos para Babesia vogeli e 1,54% para Ehrlichia canis sendo os resultados para Hepatozoon canis negativos. No teste sorológico para E. canis 90,77% dos animais foram positivos para a presença de anticorpos, e na pesquisa em lâminas de esfregaço sanguíneo 3,02% apresentavam outros hemoparasitas. Os resultados indicam a dispersão desses hemoparasitas na população canina da região de estudo, entretanto com baixa ocorrência. O teste de PCR demonstrou-se como o mais sensível no qual Babesia vogeli foi o agente mais observado.

Tick-borne diseases are of great importance in the medical practice of small animals, due to the high casuistry and wide vectorial distribution in the Brazilian territory. The main agents responsible for infections in dogs are Babesia sp., Ehrlichia canis and Hepatozoon canis. Infected animals are asymptomatic or present nonspecific clinical signs, requiring the use of diagnostic tests to define the etiologic agent, and safe diagnosis. The objective of the present study was to determine the occurrence of these microorganisms in naturally infected dogs domiciled in the municipalities of Vila Velha and Anchieta, Espírito Santo, using different detection tests: polymerase chain reaction (PCR), serology to detect antibodies against Ehrlichia canis and research of hematozoa in blood smears. Sixty-five blood samples obtained by venipuncture of the cephalic vein were analyzed. In the PCR test, 4.62% of the animals were positive for Babesia vogeli and 1.54% for Ehrlichia canis, and the results for Hepatozoon canis were negative. In the serological test for E. canis, 90.77% of the animals were positive for the presence of antibodies, and in there search in blood smear slides, 3.02% presented other hemoparasites. The results indicate the dispersion of these hemoparasites in the canine population of the study region, however with low occurrence. The PCR test proved to be the most sensitive, in which Babesia vogeli was the most observed agent.

Las enfermedades transmitidas por garrapatas son enfermedades de gran importancia en la práctica médica de los pequeños animales, debido a la alta casuística y amplia distribución vectorial en el territorio brasileño. Los principales agentes responsables de las infecciones en los perros son Babesia sp., Ehrlichia canis y Hepatozoon canis. Los animales infectados son asintomáticos o presentan signos clínicos inespecíficos, siendo necesario el uso de pruebas diagnósticas para la definición del agente etiológico, y el diagnóstico seguro. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la ocurrencia de estos microorganismos en perros infectados naturalmente, domiciliados en los municipios de Vila Velha y Anchieta, Espírito Santo, utilizando diferentes pruebas de detección: reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR), serología para detectar anticuerpos anti Ehrlichia canis e investigación de hematozoos en frotis de sangre. Se analizaron sesenta y cinco muestras de sangre obtenidas por venopunción de la vena cefálica. En la prueba PCR, el 4,62% de los animales fueron positivos para Babesia vogeliyel 1,54% paraEhrlichia canis, y los resultados para Hepatozoon canis fueron negativos. En la prueba serológica para E. canis, el 90,77% de los animales fueron positivos a la presencia de anticuerpos, y en la investigación en láminas de frotis de sangre el 3,02% presentaron otros hemoparásitos. Los resultados indican la dispersión de estos hemoparásitos en la población canina de la región de estudio, aunque con una baja presencia. La prueba PCR resultó ser la más sensible, en la que Babesia vogeli fue el agente más observado.

Babesia bovis in large ruminants in Pakistan - molecular detection and haemato-biochemical alterations

Background: Babesiosis is endemic in Pakistan and is one of the most important bovine diseases that causes huge economic losses and high mortality in young animals. A hematobiochemical study was conducted to unveil the difference between diseased and healthy animals in selected districts i.e., Faisalabad (31° 25' 7.3740'' N and 73° 4' 44.7924'' E), Toba Tek Singh (30° 58' 9.7392'' N and 72° 27' 40.7484'' E) and Jhang (31° 16' 40.9656'' N and 72° 18' 42.3360'' E) of Punjab, Pakistan. Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 518 (Cattle = 360, Buffalo = 158) blood samples were collected. The samples were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting apocytochrome b-gene (Babesia bovis-gene) (CYTb) followed by haemato-biochemical analysis. Chi-square test for univariate analysis was used to analyze the data. In summer the PCR-based prevalence was 29.4 (53/180) and 24.05% (19/79) in cows and buffaloes, respectively. On the other hand, in winter results showed that 12.7 (23/180), 13.92 % (11/79) samples positive for Babesia genus from cows and buffaloes, respectively. The positive samples were further investigated for hematological and biochemical analysis. The results revealed that, the mean value of hematological parameters like RBCs, Hb, PCV, MCV and MCHC was significantly (P < 0.05) decreased in infected animals (cows and buffaloes) as compared to the non-infected ones. While the biochemical parameters like Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), cholesterol and Lactate dehydrogenase were significantly (P < 0.05) increased in infected animals as compared to healthy animals. This study is the first molecular and hematobiochemical evidence of Babesia bovis in dairy herds of Punjab province, Pakistan. Discussion: Bovine babesiosis is one of the important tick-borne diseases (TBD) affecting dairy industry. In bovines, among 3 Babesia species that cause the disease B. bovis is more pathogenic with high mortality and morbidity. Pakistan is situated in tropical and sub-tropical region where the humidity is high in some part of countries. This high humidity mostly favors the reproduction of the ticks thus higher prevalence of TBDs in this region. Initially the babesiosis was diagnosed by light microscopy using thin blood smear stained with Giemsa stain. Many studies verified that PCR is a more specific and sensitive tool than conventional techniques for the detection of carrier / asymptomatic ruminants. The haemato-biochemical profile is another valuable footprint to track the disease. Keeping in view the above-mentioned fact the present project has been planned to evaluate the haemato-biochemical alteration between health and Babesia infected cattle along with the molecular detection of Babesia species involved in bovine babesiosis. The mean values of haematobiochemical parameters in clinically ill and healthy animals revealed that the mean values of hematological parameters like RBCs, Hb, PCV, and HCT were significantly decreased in diseased animals as compared to the healthy ones. All these might be due the fact that the parasite is intra-erythrocytic in nature and destruction of red blood cells results in significant (P < 0.05) decrease level of all the hematological parameters. The mean value of ALT in babesiosis infected cattle was significantly higher as compared to healthy cattle. The mean values of AST and LDH in babesiosis infected cows was significantly higher as compared to that in healthy cows. The elevation in liver enzymes in babesiosis may be due to the hepatic damage and lesions induced by the parasite during its multiplication in the blood followed by disturbed liver function. These enzymes are present in high concentrations in the muscles and liver. High level of these enzymes in the blood is indicator of organ necrosis or damage.

Diagnóstico hematológico de coinfecção por Ehrlichia spp. e Hepatozoon canis em cães no semiárido da Paraíba / Hematogical diagnosis of coinfection by Ehrlichia spp. and Hepatozoon canis in dogs in the semi-arid of Paraiba

Dentre as hemoparasitoses com maior frequência de transmissão por carrapatos pode-se destacar a Erliquiose, a Hepatozoonose, a Anaplasmose e a Babesiose. A coinfecção por esses agentes são frequentes na rotina clínica; no entanto, poucas são as descrições sobre a ocorrência simultânea desses agentes em hemogramas. Sendo assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi relatar os casos de quatro cães diagnosticados com coinfecção por Ehrlichia spp. e Hepatozoon canis, os quais foram atendidos no Hospital Veterinário Adílio Santos de Azevedo (HV-ASA) do Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia da Paraíba (IFPB), campus Sousa. Durante a avaliação clínica, relatou-se que os pacientes apresentavam, de maneira em comum, oligodipsia e hiporexia, além de histórico de presença de carrapatos. Em seguida, foram realizados hemogramas, que revelaram que todos os animais apresentavam anemia leve a moderada. Além disso, notou-se que o animal 1 estava com trombocitopenia e os animais 2 e 3, neutrofilia. Na pesquisa de hemoparasitas em esfregaço sanguíneo, observou-se coinfecção por H. canis e E. spp. nos quatro animais. Desta forma, este relato demonstrou a importância do uso do hemograma e da pesquisa dos agentes causadores das hemoparasitoses, através do esfregaço sanguíneo. Ressalte-se que o esfregaço sanguíneo, embora seja um método inespecífico e de baixa sensibilidade, pode e deve ser adotado como rotina, por ser uma técnica simples, rápida, barata, pouco invasiva e de diagnóstico definitivo.

Among the hemoparasitoses with the highest frequency of transmission by ticks, ehrlichiosis, hepatozoonosis, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis may be highlighted. The coinfection with these agents is frequent in clinical routine; however, there are few descriptions of the simultaneous occurrence of these agents in blood counts. Therefore, this work aimed to report the cases of four dogs diagnosed with Ehrlichia spp. and Hepatozoon canis, which were treated at the Adílio Santos de Azevedo Veterinary Hospital (HV-ASA), of the Federal Institute of Education, Science, and Technology of Paraíba (IFPB), Sousa campus. During the clinical evaluation, it was reported that the patients had oligodipsia and hyporexia in common, in addition to a history of tick presence. Then, blood counts were performed, which revealed that all animals had mild to moderate anemia. In addition, it was noted that animal 1 had thrombocytopenia and animals 2 and 3 had neutrophilia. In the investigation of hemoparasites in blood smears, co-infection with H. canis and E. spp. was observed in the four animals. Thus, this report demonstrated the importance of using the blood count and researching the causative agents of hemoparasitosis, through the blood smear. It should be noted that the blood smear, although it is a non-specific and low-sensitivity method, can and should be adopted as a routine, as it is a simple, fast, inexpensive, minimally invasive, and definitive diagnostic technique.

Hemoperitoneum in a cow with lumbar muscle hemangiosarcoma

Background: Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant neoplasm of endothelial cells with an infiltrative growth pattern. Hemangiosarcomas are frequently reported in canines and rare in felines, sheep, goats, swine, horses and cattle. Few cases of hemangiosarcoma were reported in cattle. In the present report, we describe the clinicopathological findings of a bovine muscle hemangiosarcoma. Case: A 6-year-old, Girolando cow from the Dairy Cattle Sector of the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), Seropédica, presented sternal decubitus. Clinical signs were markedly pale mucous membranes, moderate dehydration, respiratory distress, and increased heart rate. The hematological examination revealed intense regenerative anemia. Due to the worsening of the clinical condition, the cow was submitted to euthanasia. The necropsy and collection of various fragments of organs were performed, which were sent to the "Setor de Anatomia Patológica" (SAP-UFRRJ). Tissues were fixed in 10 % buffered formalin, routinely processed for histology and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE). The external mucous membranes were markedly pale. Multifocal areas of 1.5 x 1.0 cm, irregular and dark red were observed dissecting the quadratus lumborum muscle (hemangiosarcoma) fibers. These neoplasms were associated with an extensive cruoric clot adhered to the muscle fibers. The extensive, red, friable mass measured approximately 76 x 55 x 20 cm on the serous surfaces of the organs of the peritoneal cavity (hemoperitoneum). The spleen was moderately reduced. The bone marrow was markedly pale. Histologically, it was observed that there was an extensive proliferation of endothelial cells in the quadratus lumbar muscle mass dissecting the epimysium and perimysium. Endothelial cells had moderate pleomorphism, organized in vascular channels and forming multifocally solid areas with a significant amount of eosinophilic fibrillar material (fibrin). Sections of muscle neoplasm were subjected to immunohistochemistry with anti-von Willebrand factor primary antibody, which showed a multifocal moderate cytoplasmic immunolabeling of neoplastic endothelial cells. Discussion: There are few reports of striated muscle hemangiosarcoma in cattle. Muscular hemangiosarcomas were reported in a 4-month-old calf in the left cervical trapezius muscle and a 6-year-old Holstein cow with left pelvic limb mass lateral and distal to the knee. Some reports presented hemangiosarcoma in the iliopsoas muscle, left cervical trapezius muscle, pelvic limb muscles and right cervical muscle of the bovine. In the presented report, hemoperitoneum occurred as a result of hemorrhages from muscle hemangiosarcoma. Other studies have demonstrated cavity hemorrhages in joint, pelvic, pleural and cranial cavities associated with hemangiosarcoma. Hemangiosarcoma with regenerative anemia must be distinguished from other diseases that cause anemia. The main differential diagnoses of bovine with anemia are vena cava syndrome, coumarin derivatives poisoning, acute poisoning by Pteridium spp., tick fever, anaplasmosis, babesiosis and trypanosomiasis. Hemangiosarcoma should be differentiated from other lesions as hemangioma, vascular tumor of lymphatic endothelium and perivascular wall tumors. Cases with poorly differentiated morphology should be submitted for immunohistochemistry. In the present hemangiosarcoma case, we have used the von Willebrand factor for immunohistochemistry diagnosis. Expression of angiogenic growth factors such as CD31, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1) have also been used in the diagnosis of vascular proliferation lesions. Hemangiosarcoma in cattle should be included mainly in the differential diagnosis of diseases that cause acute anemia in cattle.

Perfil hematológico e epidemiológico em cães com babesiose, no município de Fortaleza/CE / Hematological and epidemiological profile in dogs with babesiosis in the municipality of Fortaleza/CE

A babesiose canina é uma hemoparasitose, causada por um protozoário do gênero Babesia spp., que parasita os eritrócitos de animais infectados. Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar o perfil hematológico e epidemiológico de cães diagnosticados com babesiose, através da visualização, no esfregaço sanguíneo, de merozoítos no interior dos eritrócitos, na cidade de Fortaleza/CE, durante cinco anos (2015 a 2019). No período, foram observados 38 cães acometidos. O segundo semestre, o período seco, foi o que apresentou um maior número de casos (60,5%). Observou-se maior frequência em cães machos (57,8%), sem raça definida (57,8%), com menos de um ano de idade (73,6%). As alterações hematológicas mais frequentes foram trombocitopenia (86,8%) e anemia (81,5%). Sugere-se, nesses casos, a inclusão da babesiose como diagnóstico diferencial. Apesar da baixa sensibilidade, a pesquisa de hemoparasitos, no esfregaço sanguíneo, pode ser utilizada na rotina clínica.

Canine babesiosis is a hemoparasitosis caused by a protozoan of the genus Babesia spp., that parasitize the erythrocytes of infected animals. This study aimed to analyze the hematological and epidemiological profile of dogs diagnosed with babesiosis, through visualization in blood smear of merozoites inside erythrocytes, in the city of Fortaleza/CE, for five years (2015 to 2019). During the period, 38 affected dogs were observed. The second half, the dry period, was the one with the highest number of cases (60.5%). A higher frequency was observed in male dogs (57.8%), mixed breed (57.8%) under one year of age (73.6%). The most frequent hematological changes were thrombocytopenia (86.8%) and anemia (81.5%). In these cases, it is suggested to include babesiosis as a differential diagnosis. Despite the low sensitivity, the search for hemoparasites in the blood smear can be used in the clinical routine.

Molecular epidemiology of bovine babesiosis in Punjab, Pakistan

Background: Babesiosis is endemic in Pakistan and is one of the most important bovine diseases that causes huge economic losses and high mortality in young animals. This disease is transmitted by a protozoan parasite, which belongs togenus Babesia (Apicomplexa: Piroplasmida: Babesiidae). This disease is very much prevalent in summers followed byrainy season because humid environment is favorable for the growth of these parasites. An epidemiological and molecularstudy was conducted to unveil the prevalence and associated risk factors of Babesia bigemina (B. bigemina) and Babesiabovis (B. bovis) in selected districts i.e., Faisalabad, Toba Tek Singh and Jhang of Punjab, Pakistan.Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 518 (Cattle = 360, Buffalo = 158) blood samples were collected. The sampleswere analyzed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and nested PCR (n-PCR) targeting apocytochrome b-genes (CYTb).Chi-square test for univariate analysis was used to analyze the data. The overall prevalence in summer based upon microscopic analysis was 20.55% (37/180) and 13.92% (11/79) in cattle and buffaloes respectively and in winter was 8.80%(16/180), 5.06% (4/79)) in cattle and buffaloes respectively. The samples were further analyzed through conventional PCR(c-PCR) and nested PCR (nPCR). The overall results of conventional PCR in summer showed that 72 cows and buffaloeswere infected with babesiosis. The conventional PCR based results of summer showed that prevalence of babesiosis was29.44% (53/180) in cows and 24.05% (19/79) buffaloes. The results of cPCR during the winter season showed that 12.77%(23/180) and 13.92% (11/79) buffaloes were positive for babesiosis. The overall results of conventional PCR in wintershowed that 34/259 cows and buffaloes were infected with babesiosis. On the other hand, the nested PCR results of summerseason showed that the prevalence of babesiosis in cows was 32.22% (58/180) and...

Molecular epidemiology of bovine babesiosis in Punjab, Pakistan

Background: Babesiosis is endemic in Pakistan and is one of the most important bovine diseases that causes huge economic losses and high mortality in young animals. This disease is transmitted by a protozoan parasite, which belongs togenus Babesia (Apicomplexa: Piroplasmida: Babesiidae). This disease is very much prevalent in summers followed byrainy season because humid environment is favorable for the growth of these parasites. An epidemiological and molecularstudy was conducted to unveil the prevalence and associated risk factors of Babesia bigemina (B. bigemina) and Babesiabovis (B. bovis) in selected districts i.e., Faisalabad, Toba Tek Singh and Jhang of Punjab, Pakistan.Materials, Methods & Results: A total of 518 (Cattle = 360, Buffalo = 158) blood samples were collected. The sampleswere analyzed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and nested PCR (n-PCR) targeting apocytochrome b-genes (CYTb).Chi-square test for univariate analysis was used to analyze the data. The overall prevalence in summer based upon microscopic analysis was 20.55% (37/180) and 13.92% (11/79) in cattle and buffaloes respectively and in winter was 8.80%(16/180), 5.06% (4/79)) in cattle and buffaloes respectively. The samples were further analyzed through conventional PCR(c-PCR) and nested PCR (nPCR). The overall results of conventional PCR in summer showed that 72 cows and buffaloeswere infected with babesiosis. The conventional PCR based results of summer showed that prevalence of babesiosis was29.44% (53/180) in cows and 24.05% (19/79) buffaloes. The results of cPCR during the winter season showed that 12.77%(23/180) and 13.92% (11/79) buffaloes were positive for babesiosis. The overall results of conventional PCR in wintershowed that 34/259 cows and buffaloes were infected with babesiosis. On the other hand, the nested PCR results of summerseason showed that the prevalence of babesiosis in cows was 32.22% (58/180) and...(AU)

Babesia vogeli in dogs from Rio Branco, South-west Amazonia, Brazil / Babesia vogeli em cães de Rio Branco, sudoeste da Amazônia, Brasil

This is the first report of Babesia vogeli molecular detection in dogs from the state of Acre, northern Brazil. This study aimed to perform the molecular detection of Babesia vogeli in dogs in the municipality of Rio Branco, Acre. Blood samples were collected from 47 dogs presenting with clinical signs comparable to hemoparasitosis. These were dogs which were attended in veterinary clinics from Rio Branco municipality, Acre. Physical examinations, packed cell volume (PCV) determination, platelet number estimation, hemoparasite investigation in the blood (collected from the pinna and peripheral blood), and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for piroplasm based on the 18S rRNA gene, were performed. One dog (1/47, 2.1%; CI 95%: 0.1-11.3%) tested positive to Babesia vogeli in the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for piroplasms and the resulting sequence showed 100% identity with Babesia vogeli isolates deposited in GenBank®. Co-infection with Ehrlichia spp. was also observed by direct examination (via blood smear). The clinical and hematological alterations observed in the positive animal were anorexia, dehydration, white mucous membranes, anemia and thrombocytopenia.(AU)

Este é o primeiro relato de detecção molecular de Babesia vogeli em cães do estado do Acre, norte do Brasil. Este estudo teve como objetivo realizar a detecção molecular de B. vogeli em amostras de sangue de 47 cães com sinais clínicos compatíveis com hemoparasitoses no município de Rio Branco, Acre. Tratavam-se de animais atendidos em clínicas veterinárias do município, sendo realizados exames físicos, determinação do volume globular (VG), estimativa do número de plaquetas, investigação de hemoparasitos no sangue (coletado da ponta da orelha e sangue periférico). Além disso, amostras de sangue foram submetidas a extração de DNA e reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) para amplificação de fragmentos do gene 18S rRNA de piroplasmas. Um cão (1/47, 2,1%; IC 95%: 0,1-11,3%) apresentou resultado positivo para B. vogeli na PCR para piroplasmas e a sequência resultante mostrou 100% de identidade com os isolados de B. vogeli depositados no GenBank®. Co-infecção com Ehrlichia spp. também foi observado por exame direto (esfregaço de sangue). As alterações clínicas e hematológicas observadas no animal positivo foram anorexia, desidratação, mucosas pálidas, anemia e trombocitopenia.(AU)

The reality of the donkey's exploitation for the hide trade in Brazil: disease outbreaks and animal welfare compromised in rescued donkeys / A realidade da exploração de jumentos para exportação de pele no Brasil: surtos sanitários e bem-estar animal comprometido em asininos resgatados

About 800 donkeys that were confined in a restrictive area used in a manner comparable to a warehouse for receiving donkeys for slaughter were abandoned. After receiving reports of mistreatment, civilians acted to save the animals. A task force was organized that planned veterinary and zootechnical actions and activities for daily health management, feeding, and clinical care to attend to the abandoned donkeys. Positive cases were diagnosed for glanders, equine infectious anemia, equine herpesvirus, and equine babesiosis. The objective of this communication is to bring to the attention of the scientific community the interventions in the area of animal health and welfare, to address the episode of northeast donkeys that were victims of international trade. It is fundamental to change the approach related to the management of donkeys in Brazil, and appeal to the necessity to identify ethical and sustainable ways to incorporate donkeys in Brazil in the 21st century.(AU)

Cerca de 800 jumentos confinados em uma área utilizada como entreposto de recebimento e encaminhamento de jumentos para abate foram abandonados. Após denúncias de maus tratos, a sociedade civil atuou para salvar os animais. Foi constituída uma força tarefa que planejou ações e atividades veterinárias e zootécnicas atuando diariamente no manejo sanitário, na alimentação e nos cuidados clínicos na assistência aos jumentos abandonados. Foram diagnosticados casos positivos de mormo, anemia infecciosa equina, herpesvírus equino e babesiose equina. O objetivo desta comunicação foi relatar para a comunidade científica as intervenções nas áreas de saúde e bem-estar animal no episódio dos jumentos nordestinos vítimas do comércio internacional. É fundamental mudar a abordagem em relação ao manejo de jumentos no Brasil e apelar para a necessidade de identificar maneiras éticas e sustentáveis de incorporar os jumentos no Brasil do século 21.(AU)