Molecular diagnostic for a screening investigation method of tick-borne pathogens in Didelphis albiventris road-killed in north of Paraná, Brazil

The synanthropization of wild animals puts public health at risk by promoting the circulation of zoonotic agents, found naturally in the wild, in the anthropic environment. The objective of this work was to carry out screening by molecular detection of pathogens of the Anaplasmatacea family in Didelphis albiventris, a specie characterized as having a synanthropic habit. Opossums that were dead (n = 25) after being road-killed were collected in the North of Paraná state, southern Brazil during the 2016 and 2018 years, through active search. A questionnaire was filled out with information about the animal and collected place. Biological samples of spleen and liver were collected. The genetic material extracted from the spleen and liver was submitted to molecular diagnosis through PCR for amplification of dsb of Ehrlichia and 16S genes for the other agents of the Anaplasmataceae family. One animal was positive for the genus Ehrlichia in semi-nested PCR for amplification of the 349 bp fragment of the dsb gene in extracted from the liver samples. In PCR for the 16S target no animal was positive. These are preliminary results that reinforce the circulation of Ehrlichia in opossums. To improve the knowledge of these agents in opossums more studies are necessary.(AU)

A sinantropização de animais silvestres coloca em risco a saúde pública por propiciar a circulação de agentes zoonóticos, encontrados naturalmente em ambiente silvestre, no ambiente antrópico. O trabalho teve como objetivo realizar a triagem por detecção molecular de patógenos da família Anaplasmataceae em Didelphis albiventris, espécie caracterizada como de hábito sinantrópico. Gambás mortos (n=25) por atropelamento durante os anos de 2016 e 2018 foram coletados na região norte do Paraná, sul do Brasil, por meio de busca ativa. Realizou-se o preenchimento de formulário com informações sobre a espécie do animal e o local do atropelamento. Foi realizada a necrópsia e coleta de amostras biológicas, de baço e fígado. O material genético extraído de baço e fígado foi submetido a diagnóstico molecular, por meio de PCR, para amplificação dos genes dsb de Ehrlichia sp. e 16S para os demais agentes da família Anaplasmataceae. Um animal foi positivo para o gênero Ehrlichia em semi-nested PCR para a amplificação do fragmento de 349 pb do gene dsb, extraído de fígado. Na PCR para detecção do gene 16S nenhum dos animais foi positivo. Esses resultados preliminares reforçam a circulação de Ehrlichias em gambás. Para melhorar o conhecimento desses agentes em gambás mais estudos são necessários.(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)

Seroprevalence and hematological abnormalities associated with Ehrlichia canis in dogs referred to a veterinary teaching hospital in central-western Brazil / Soroprevalência e alterações hematológicas associadas com Ehrlichia canis em cães encaminhados a um hospital veterinário-escola no centro-oeste do Brasil

Ticks are significant parasites of dogs in the tropics, where tick-borne pathogens are highly prevalent, especially in areas where tick control measures are frequently neglected. This study investigated the seroprevalence and hematological abnormalities associated with Ehrlichia canis in dogs referred to a veterinary teaching hospital in Central-western Brazil. Out of 264 dogs tested for anti-Ehrlichia canis antibodies by an indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA), 59.1% (156/264) were positive. Seropositivity was significantly associated to anemia and thrombocytopenia, alone or in combination, and to leukopenia. Conversely, there were no differences in terms of seroprevalence according to sex, breed and age. This study demonstrated that dogs referred to a veterinary teaching hospital in Central-western Brazil are highly exposed to E. canis and that seropositive dogs are more likely to present hematological abnormalities, particularly anemia, thrombocytopenia and leukopenia. To our knowledge, this is the first study on detection of anti-E. canis antibodies by means of IFA among dogs in the state of Goiás. These findings highlighted the need for increasing awareness among dog owners regarding tick control measures in Central-western Brazil, ultimately to reduce the risk of exposure to E. canis and other tick-borne pathogens.

Carrapatos são importantes parasitos de cães nos trópicos, onde patógenos transmitidos por carrapatos são altamente prevalentes, especialmente em áreas onde as medidas de controle de carrapatos são frequentemente negligenciadas. O estudo investigou a soroprevalência e as anormalidades hematológicas associadas à Ehrlichia canis em cães encaminhados para um hospital veterinário-escola no Centro-oeste do Brasil. Dos 264 cães testados para anticorpos anti-Ehrlichia canis por meio da reação de imunofluorescência indireta (RIFI), 59.1% (156/264) foram positivos. A soropositividade foi associada significativamente à anemia e trombocitopenia, isoladamente ou em combinação, e à leucopenia. Por outro lado, não houve diferenças quanto à soroprevalência segundo sexo, raça e idade. Este estudo demonstrou que cães encaminhados a um hospital veterinário-escola na região Centro-oeste do Brasil são altamente expostos à E. canis, e que cães soropositivos têm maior probabilidade de apresentar alterações hematológicas, principalmente anemia, trombocitopenia e leucopenia. Para o nosso conhecimento, este é o primeiro estudo sobre a detecção de anticorpos anti-E. canis por meio da RIFI em cães do estado de Goiás. Essas descobertas destacam a necessidade de aumentar a conscientização entre os proprietários de cães em relação às medidas de controle do carrapato no Centro-oeste do Brasil, em última análise, para reduzir o risco de exposição ao E. canis e outros patógenos transmitidos por carrapatos.

Immunophenotypical and pathological changes in dogs experimentally infected with Ehrlichia canis / Alterações imunofenotípicas e patológicas em cães experimentalmente infectados por Ehrlichia canis

Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME) is one of the most important tick-borne diseases worldwide, with multisystemic presentations. Immune dysregulation has been proposed as the primary mechanism involved in its pathogenesis and in tissue injury in dogs with CME. Experimental infection of German Shepherd dogs in the present study demonstrated that CME caused marked pathological changes in their lymph nodes and spleen, and also gave rise to mononuclear infiltration in organs and tissues. Immunophenotyping of cells in lymph nodes, spleen and injured tissues highlighted differences in lymphocyte subsets, local expression of immunoglobulin subclasses and MHCII molecules between infected and control dogs. These findings suggest that the immunophenotypic and immunopathological changes in dogs with acute experimental CME are related to Th1 bias and compartmentalized immune response.(AU)

A erliquiose monocítica canina (EMC) é uma das doenças veiculadas por carrapatos com apresentações multisistêmicas mais relevantes em todo o mundo. A desregulação do sistema imune vem sendo proposta como o principal mecanismo envolvido na patogênese e lesão de tecidos em cães com EMC. A infecção experimental de pastores alemães nesta pesquisa evidenciou marcadas alterações patológicas em linfonodos, baço e também infiltração mononuclear em órgãos e tecidos. A imunofenotipagem de células em linfonodos, baço e tecidos lesados destacou diferenças em subconjuntos de linfócitos, expressão local de subclasses de imunoglobulinas e de moléculas MHCII entre cães infectados e controle. Esses achados sugerem que um viés Th1 e uma resposta imune compartimentalizada estão relacionados às alterações imunofenotípicas e imunopatológicas em cães com EMC experimental aguda.(AU)

Canine transmissible venereal tumor with spontaneous remission: case study with emphasis on clinical and cytopathological exams to monitor tumor evolution / Tumor venéreo transmissível canino com remissão espontânea: estudo de caso com ênfase aos exames clínico e citopatológico para monitoramento da evolução tumoral

The canine transmissible venereal tumor (TVTC) is a neoplasm transmitted mainly through copulation and with a high incidence in stray dogs in Brazil. In the process of tumor evolution of TVTC, the progression, stationary and regression phases are recognized. The host immunity is related to the disease's biological behavior, however, spontaneous regression observation in cases of naturally occurring TVTC is uncommon. A canine patient was attended, after beeing rescued from the street, due to an ulcerated mass in the external genitália and tick infestation. Cytopathological examination, which diagnosed TVTC, and laboratory tests that showed mild anemia and severe thrombocytopenia were performed. In view of the impossibility of carrying out other exams, it was made the presumptive diagnosis of canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME), and treatment was instituted. During follow-up it was observed quick improvement in clinical signs and laboratory changes, as well as a reduction in tumor mass. A new cytopathological evaluation was carried out, and was verified increase in mature lymphocytes and plasmocytes in the midst of the tumor cells, finding compatible with the stationary phase of the disease. From that moment on, it was decided to perform only clinical and cytopathological follow-up. In the following evaluations, continuous clinical remission and cytopathological findings compatible with those described in the regression phase were observed, until its complete remission. It is considered that the improvement in the general health of the patient after the treatment of CME is related to the spontaneous regression of TVTC, and that simultaneous performance of serial clinical and cytopathological exams may be feasible and useful for monitoring the stages of evolution of TVTC.

O tumor venéreo transmissível canino (TVTC) é uma neoplasia transmitida principalmente através da cópula, com elevada incidência em cães errantes no Brasil. No processo de evolução tumoral do TVTC, são reconhecidas as fases de progressão, estacionária e de regressão. O estado imunológico do hospedeiro está relacionado ao comportamento biológico da doença, contudo, a observação de regressão espontânea em casos de TVTC de ocorrência natural é incomum. Foi atendida uma paciente canina, resgatada da rua, por apresentar massa ulcerada na genitália externa e infestação por carrapatos. Foram realizados exame citopatológico, que diagnosticou TVTC, e exames laboratoriais que evidenciaram anemia discreta e grave trombocitopenia. Com isso e diante da impossibilidade de realizar outros exames, foi também estabelecido o diagnóstico presuntivo de erlichiose monocítica canina (EMC) e instituído tratamento para a hemoparasitose. Durante o acompanhamento, foi observada rápida melhora dos sinais clínicos e das alterações laboratoriais, bem como a redução espontânea da massa tumoral. Em sequência, foi realizada nova avaliação citopatológica do TVTC e verificado o aumento quantitativo de linfócitos maduros e plasmócitos, em meio as células tumorais, achado compatível com a fase estacionária da doença. A partir desse momento, optou-se por realizar apenas acompanhamento clínico e avaliação citopatológica da neoplasia. Foram observados contínua remissão clínica e achados microscópicos compatíveis com a fase de regressão do tumor, até sua remissão completa. Pondera-se que a melhora na saúde geral da paciente após o tratamento da EMC esteja relacionada à regressão espontânea do TVTC, e que realização simultânea de exames clínico e citopatológico seriados pode ser viável e útil ao acompanhamento das fases de evolução do TVTC.

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)

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.

Anaplasma phagocytophilum in horses - evaluation of proinflammatory biomarkers

Background: Anaplasma phagocytophilum is an obligate intracellular pathogen transmitted by the ticks that cause equinegranulocytic anaplasmosis (EGA). This pathogen is infects predominantly blood cells, principally granulocytes and especially neutrophils. A. phagocytophilum causes an acute febrile disease in horses accompanying with lethargy, loss ofappetite, lameness and hemorrhages. In horses, this disease should be considered in all acute symptoms accompaniedby thrombocytopenia and leukopenia identified by hematological test performed. Tick-borne pathogens have becomeincreasingly threatening for both animals and also public health since ticks mostly carry numerous well-documented andundocumented pathogens, and the geographical range of ticks has expanded in the recent years. This research has aimed toevaluate the impact of A. phagocytophilum infection on some oxidative/nitrosative stress parameters, antioxidant enzymeactivities, proinflammatory biomarkers and trace element levels in horses.Materials, Methods & Results: The present study has been carried out using blood samples collected from 93 horses aged1-year and older. The blood samples were centrifuged and sera were separated. Serum samples stored in the freezer (-20°C)until the day of analysis. The DNA was extracted from blood and analysed by nested-PCR technique targeting 16S rRNAgene of A. phagocytophilum and then positive PCR products were sequenced. A. phagocytophilum was 6 horses (6.4%)showed positive nested-PCR results. An infected group comprised of 6 positive horses according to PCR analysis results also6 healthy horses as control were selected. Serum SOD (Horse Superoxide Dismutase(Cu-Zn)) ELISA Kit, MPO (ELISAAssay Kit Horse Myeloperoxidase) and GPx (Horse glutathione peroxidase 1 ELISA Kit Assay), IL1 (Horse Interleukin 1Beta ELISA Kit), IL6 (Horse Interleukin 6 ELISA Kit), TNF α (Horse Tumor Necrosis...

Relationship between ocular abnormalities and hematologic alterations in patients infected naturally by Ehrlichia canis / Alterações hematológicas e sua relação com anormalidades oculares em pacientes infectados naturalmente com Ehrlichia canis

To determine the association between ocular abnormalities and hematologic findings in Ehrlichia canis-infected dogs, 120 dogs suspected of canine ehrlichiosis were studied. All patients were subjected to rapid serologic diagnostic test for Ehrlichia canis, and the diagnosis was confirmed by quantitative PCR. PCR-positive patients underwent ophthalmologic examination and a hemogram and were grouped into patients with thrombocytopenia and anemia (G1), patients with thrombocytopenia (G2), and patients without hematologic disorders (G3). For ophthalmic evaluation, the patients were grouped into those having mild, severe, both mild and severe, and no ocular alterations. All patients presented with uveitis (100%). Severe ocular disorders predominated in G1 and G2 patients. Dogs with anemia and leukopenia showed severe ocular disorders. In dogs with a greater number of leukocytes and copies/µl of the TRAG gene, the intraocular pressure (IOP) tends to decrease and vice versa (r = −0.23, r = −0.26). In conclusion, uveitis is the earliest ocular alteration of canine ehrlichiosis. The severity of ocular abnormalities in patients with ehrlichiosis is associated with thrombocytopenia and may be aggravated by anemia and leukopenia. The hemogram and IOP are useful tools for predicting eye involvement in Ehrlichia canis-infected patients. In regions where Ehrlichia canis is endemic, the use of the tonometer should be routinely in dog general consultation.

Para determinar a associação entre anormalidades oculares e achados hematológicos em cães infectados com Ehrlichia canis, foram estudados 120 cães com suspeita de erliquiose canina. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos a um teste diagnóstico sorológico rápido para Ehrlichia canis, e o diagnóstico foi confirmado por PCR quantitativa. Os pacientes com PCR positivo foram submetidos a exame oftalmológico e hemograma completo e foram agrupados em pacientes com trombocitopenia e anemia (G1), pacientes com trombocitopenia (G2) e pacientes sem distúrbios hematológicos (G3). Para avaliação oftalmológica, os pacientes foram agrupados em pacientes com alterações leves ou graves, leves e graves e sem anormalidades oculares. Todos os pacientes apresentaram uveíte (100%). Os distúrbios oculares graves predominaram nos pacientes do G1 e G2. Cães com anemia e leucopenia apresentaram distúrbios oculares graves. Em cães com maior número de leucócitos e cópias/µl do gene TRAG, a pressão intra-ocular tendeu a diminuir e vice-versa (r = -0.23, r = -0.26). Em conclusão, a uveíte é o primeiro distúrbio ocular da erliquiose canina. A gravidade das anormalidades oculares em pacientes com erliquiose está associada à trombocitopenia e pode ser agravada por anemia e leucopenia. Hemograma e PIO são ferramentas úteis para prever o envolvimento ocular em pacientes infectados com Ehrlichia canis. Nas regiões em que o Ehrlichia canis é endêmico, o uso do tonômetro deve ser rotineiro nas consultas gerais de cães.

Relationship between ocular abnormalities and hematologic alterations in patients infected naturally by Ehrlichia canis / Alterações hematológicas e sua relação com anormalidades oculares em pacientes infectados naturalmente com Ehrlichia canis

To determine the association between ocular abnormalities and hematologic findings in Ehrlichia canis-infected dogs, 120 dogs suspected of canine ehrlichiosis were studied. All patients were subjected to rapid serologic diagnostic test for Ehrlichia canis, and the diagnosis was confirmed by quantitative PCR. PCR-positive patients underwent ophthalmologic examination and a hemogram and were grouped into patients with thrombocytopenia and anemia (G1), patients with thrombocytopenia (G2), and patients without hematologic disorders (G3). For ophthalmic evaluation, the patients were grouped into those having mild, severe, both mild and severe, and no ocular alterations. All patients presented with uveitis (100%). Severe ocular disorders predominated in G1 and G2 patients. Dogs with anemia and leukopenia showed severe ocular disorders. In dogs with a greater number of leukocytes and copies/µl of the TRAG gene, the intraocular pressure (IOP) tends to decrease and vice versa (r = −0.23, r = −0.26). In conclusion, uveitis is the earliest ocular alteration of canine ehrlichiosis. The severity of ocular abnormalities in patients with ehrlichiosis is associated with thrombocytopenia and may be aggravated by anemia and leukopenia. The hemogram and IOP are useful tools for predicting eye involvement in Ehrlichia canis-infected patients. In regions where Ehrlichia canis is endemic, the use of the tonometer should be routinely in dog general consultation.(AU)

Para determinar a associação entre anormalidades oculares e achados hematológicos em cães infectados com Ehrlichia canis, foram estudados 120 cães com suspeita de erliquiose canina. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos a um teste diagnóstico sorológico rápido para Ehrlichia canis, e o diagnóstico foi confirmado por PCR quantitativa. Os pacientes com PCR positivo foram submetidos a exame oftalmológico e hemograma completo e foram agrupados em pacientes com trombocitopenia e anemia (G1), pacientes com trombocitopenia (G2) e pacientes sem distúrbios hematológicos (G3). Para avaliação oftalmológica, os pacientes foram agrupados em pacientes com alterações leves ou graves, leves e graves e sem anormalidades oculares. Todos os pacientes apresentaram uveíte (100%). Os distúrbios oculares graves predominaram nos pacientes do G1 e G2. Cães com anemia e leucopenia apresentaram distúrbios oculares graves. Em cães com maior número de leucócitos e cópias/µl do gene TRAG, a pressão intra-ocular tendeu a diminuir e vice-versa (r = -0.23, r = -0.26). Em conclusão, a uveíte é o primeiro distúrbio ocular da erliquiose canina. A gravidade das anormalidades oculares em pacientes com erliquiose está associada à trombocitopenia e pode ser agravada por anemia e leucopenia. Hemograma e PIO são ferramentas úteis para prever o envolvimento ocular em pacientes infectados com Ehrlichia canis. Nas regiões em que o Ehrlichia canis é endêmico, o uso do tonômetro deve ser rotineiro nas consultas gerais de cães.(AU)

Aspectos epidemiológicos e hematológicos de cães infectados com Ehrlichia sp e Anaplasma sp em Jataí - GO, Brasil / Epidemiological and hematological aspects of dogs with Ehrlichia sp and Anaplasma sp in Jataí - GO / Aspectos epidemiológicos y hematológicos de perros con Ehrlichia sp y Anaplasma sp en Jataí - GO

No Brasil, as infecções por hemoparasitas representam uma das principais causas de busca por assistência veterinária em cães. Infecções por bactérias da ordem Rickettsiales que incluem Ehrlichia sp. e Anaplasma sp.tem uma grande participação nessas buscas. Foi objetivo deste estudo elucidar aspectos epidemiológicos regionais e hematológicos de infecções por Anaplasma sp.e Ehrlichia sp, muitas vezes assintomáticas, em cães no município de Jataí-GO. Os dados deste estudo foram baseados em amostras de sangue de cães atendidos no Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal de Jataí, em Jataí, Goiás, entre os anos de 2005 e 2017. A observação microscópica da presença de mórulas de Ehrlichia sp. e Anaplasma sp. foi utilizada como critério de positividade. 5.015 animais foram atendidos nesse período e 691 (13,78%) deles foram positivos para a presença destes hemoparasitas. Entre esses animais, 9,23% (463/5015) possuíam mórulas de Ehrlichia sp., e 4,37% (219/5015) apresentavam mórulas típicas de Anaplasma sp.,enquanto 0,18% (9/5015) possuíam mórula de ambas as espécies. As fêmeas representaram 57,89% (400/691) dos animais positivos e os machos 42,11% (291/691). 35,02% (242/691) dos animais tinham menos de 1 ano de vida, 54,13% (374/691) tinham entre 1 e 8 anos, e 10,85% (75/691) tinham mais de 8 anos. As fêmeas, com menos de um ano de idade e coinfectadas, apresentaram as alterações mais significativas nos aspectos hematológicos, hematócrito (29%), contagem de hemácias (3 milhões/mm3), contagem de plaquetas (40.000/mm3) e contagem total de leucócitos (16.000 mil/mm3), evidenciando anemia e trombocitopenia. Animais infectados com Anaplasma sp.e Ehrlichia sp.,ao mesmo tempo, apresentaram trombocitopenia mais intensa, evidenciada em machos entre 1 e 8 anos (30.000/mm3). As infecções por Anaplasma sp. causaram uma diminuição severa na média da contagem de glóbulos vermelhos, evidenciada em machos (3 milhões/mm3) e fêmeas com menos de 1 ano (3,79 milhões/mm3).

In Brazil, infections by hemoparasites represent one of the main causes of seeking veterinary assistance in dogs. Infections with bacteria of the order Rickettsiales that include Ehrlichia sp. and Anaplasma sp. has a great participation in these assistances. The objective of this study was to elucidate regional epidemiologic and hematologic aspects of infections by Anaplasma sp. and Ehrlichia sp.,often asymptomatic, in dogs in the municipality of Jataí-GO. The data in this study were based on blood samples from dogs treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Jataí, in Jataí, Goiás, between the years 2005 and 2017. Microscopic observation of the presence of Ehrlichia sp. and Anaplasma sp. was used as a positivity criterion. 5,015 animals were treated during this period and 691 (13.78%) of them were positive for the presence of these hemoparasites. Among these animals, 9.23% (463/5015) had morulae from Ehrlichia sp., and 4.37% (219/5015) had morulae typical of Anaplasma sp., while 0.18% (9/5015) had morulae of both species. Females represented 57.89% (400/691) of positive animals and males 42.11% (291/691). 35.02% (242/691) of the animals were less than one year old, 54.13% (374/691) were between 1 and 8 years old, and 10.85% (75/691) were over 8 years old. Females, less than one year old and co-infected, showed the most significant changes in hematological, hematocrit (29%), red blood cell count (3 million / mm3), platelet count (40,000 / mm3) and total blood count leukocytes (16,000 thousand / mm3), showing anemia and thrombocytopenia. Animals infected with Anaplasma sp. and Ehrlichia sp., at the same time, presented more intense thrombocytopenia, evidenced in males between 1 and 8 years old (30,000 / mm3). Infections by Anaplasma sp. caused a severe decrease in the mean red blood cell count, evidenced in males (3 million / mm3) and females under 1 year (3.79 million / mm3).

En Brasil, las infecciones por hemoparásitos representan una de las principales causas de búsqueda de asistencia veterinaria en perros. Infecciones por bacterias del orden Rickettsiales que incluyen Ehrlichia sp.y Anaplasma sp.tienen una gran participación en estas búsquedas. El objetivo de este estudio fue dilucidar los aspectos epidemiológicos regionales y hematológicos de las infecciones por Anaplasma sp.y Ehrlichia sp., muchas veces asintomáticas, en perros del municipio de Jataí-GO. Los datos de este estudio se basaron en muestras de sangre de perros tratados en el Hospital Veterinario de la Universidad Federal de Jataí, en Jataí, Goiás, entre los años 2005 y 2017. Observación microscópica de la presencia de Ehrlichia sp. y Anaplasma sp. se utilizó como criterio de positividad. Durante este período se trataron 5.015 animales y 691 (13,78%) de ellos resultaron positivos para la presencia de estos hemoparásitos. Entre estos animales, 9,23% (463/5015) tenía mórulas de Ehrlichia sp., y 4,37% (219/5015) tenían mórulas típicas de Anaplasma sp., mientras que 0,18% (9/5015) tenían mórulas de ambas especies. Las hembras representaron 57,89% (400/691) de los animales positivos y los machos 42,11% (291/691). 35,02% (242/691) de los animales tenían menos de 1 año, 54,13% (374/691) tenían entre 1 y 8 años y 10,85% (75/691) tenían más de 8 años. Las hembras, menores de un año y coinfectadas, mostraron los cambios más significativos en hematología, hematocrito (29%), recuento de glóbulos rojos (3 millones/mm3), recuento de plaquetas (40.000/mm3) y recuento sanguíneo total leucocitos (16.000 mil/mm3), mostrando anemia y trombocitopenia. Los animales infectados por Anaplasma sp. y Ehrlichia sp., al mismo tiempo, presentaron trombocitopenia más intensa, evidenciada en machos entre 1 y 8 años (30.000 /mm3). Infecciones por Anaplasma sp. causó una disminución severa en el recuento promedio de glóbulos rojos, evidenciada en machos (3 millones/mm3) y hembras menores de 1 año (3.79 millones/mm3).

Aspectos epidemiológicos e hematológicos de cães infectados com Ehrlichia sp e Anaplasma sp em Jataí - GO, Brasil / Epidemiological and hematological aspects of dogs with Ehrlichia sp and Anaplasma sp in Jataí - GO / Aspectos epidemiológicos y hematológicos de perros con Ehrlichia sp y Anaplasma sp en Jataí - GO

No Brasil, as infecções por hemoparasitas representam uma das principais causas de busca por assistência veterinária em cães. Infecções por bactérias da ordem Rickettsiales que incluem Ehrlichia sp. e Anaplasma sp.tem uma grande participação nessas buscas. Foi objetivo deste estudo elucidar aspectos epidemiológicos regionais e hematológicos de infecções por Anaplasma sp.e Ehrlichia sp, muitas vezes assintomáticas, em cães no município de Jataí-GO. Os dados deste estudo foram baseados em amostras de sangue de cães atendidos no Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal de Jataí, em Jataí, Goiás, entre os anos de 2005 e 2017. A observação microscópica da presença de mórulas de Ehrlichia sp. e Anaplasma sp. foi utilizada como critério de positividade. 5.015 animais foram atendidos nesse período e 691 (13,78%) deles foram positivos para a presença destes hemoparasitas. Entre esses animais, 9,23% (463/5015) possuíam mórulas de Ehrlichia sp., e 4,37% (219/5015) apresentavam mórulas típicas de Anaplasma sp.,enquanto 0,18% (9/5015) possuíam mórula de ambas as espécies. As fêmeas representaram 57,89% (400/691) dos animais positivos e os machos 42,11% (291/691). 35,02% (242/691) dos animais tinham menos de 1 ano de vida, 54,13% (374/691) tinham entre 1 e 8 anos, e 10,85% (75/691) tinham mais de 8 anos. As fêmeas, com menos de um ano de idade e coinfectadas, apresentaram as alterações mais significativas nos aspectos hematológicos, hematócrito (29%), contagem de hemácias (3 milhões/mm3), contagem de plaquetas (40.000/mm3) e contagem total de leucócitos (16.000 mil/mm3), evidenciando anemia e trombocitopenia. Animais infectados com Anaplasma sp.e Ehrlichia sp.,ao mesmo tempo, apresentaram trombocitopenia mais intensa, evidenciada em machos entre 1 e 8 anos (30.000/mm3). As infecções por Anaplasma sp. causaram uma diminuição severa na média da contagem de glóbulos vermelhos, evidenciada em machos (3 milhões/mm3) e fêmeas com menos de 1 ano (3,79 milhões/mm3).(AU)

In Brazil, infections by hemoparasites represent one of the main causes of seeking veterinary assistance in dogs. Infections with bacteria of the order Rickettsiales that include Ehrlichia sp. and Anaplasma sp. has a great participation in these assistances. The objective of this study was to elucidate regional epidemiologic and hematologic aspects of infections by Anaplasma sp. and Ehrlichia sp.,often asymptomatic, in dogs in the municipality of Jataí-GO. The data in this study were based on blood samples from dogs treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Jataí, in Jataí, Goiás, between the years 2005 and 2017. Microscopic observation of the presence of Ehrlichia sp. and Anaplasma sp. was used as a positivity criterion. 5,015 animals were treated during this period and 691 (13.78%) of them were positive for the presence of these hemoparasites. Among these animals, 9.23% (463/5015) had morulae from Ehrlichia sp., and 4.37% (219/5015) had morulae typical of Anaplasma sp., while 0.18% (9/5015) had morulae of both species. Females represented 57.89% (400/691) of positive animals and males 42.11% (291/691). 35.02% (242/691) of the animals were less than one year old, 54.13% (374/691) were between 1 and 8 years old, and 10.85% (75/691) were over 8 years old. Females, less than one year old and co-infected, showed the most significant changes in hematological, hematocrit (29%), red blood cell count (3 million / mm3), platelet count (40,000 / mm3) and total blood count leukocytes (16,000 thousand / mm3), showing anemia and thrombocytopenia. Animals infected with Anaplasma sp. and Ehrlichia sp., at the same time, presented more intense thrombocytopenia, evidenced in males between 1 and 8 years old (30,000 / mm3). Infections by Anaplasma sp. caused a severe decrease in the mean red blood cell count, evidenced in males (3 million / mm3) and females under 1 year (3.79 million / mm3).(AU)

En Brasil, las infecciones por hemoparásitos representan una de las principales causas de búsqueda de asistencia veterinaria en perros. Infecciones por bacterias del orden Rickettsiales que incluyen Ehrlichia sp.y Anaplasma sp.tienen una gran participación en estas búsquedas. El objetivo de este estudio fue dilucidar los aspectos epidemiológicos regionales y hematológicos de las infecciones por Anaplasma sp.y Ehrlichia sp., muchas veces asintomáticas, en perros del municipio de Jataí-GO. Los datos de este estudio se basaron en muestras de sangre de perros tratados en el Hospital Veterinario de la Universidad Federal de Jataí, en Jataí, Goiás, entre los años 2005 y 2017. Observación microscópica de la presencia de Ehrlichia sp. y Anaplasma sp. se utilizó como criterio de positividad. Durante este período se trataron 5.015 animales y 691 (13,78%) de ellos resultaron positivos para la presencia de estos hemoparásitos. Entre estos animales, 9,23% (463/5015) tenía mórulas de Ehrlichia sp., y 4,37% (219/5015) tenían mórulas típicas de Anaplasma sp., mientras que 0,18% (9/5015) tenían mórulas de ambas especies. Las hembras representaron 57,89% (400/691) de los animales positivos y los machos 42,11% (291/691). 35,02% (242/691) de los animales tenían menos de 1 año, 54,13% (374/691) tenían entre 1 y 8 años y 10,85% (75/691) tenían más de 8 años. Las hembras, menores de un año y coinfectadas, mostraron los cambios más significativos en hematología, hematocrito (29%), recuento de glóbulos rojos (3 millones/mm3), recuento de plaquetas (40.000/mm3) y recuento sanguíneo total leucocitos (16.000 mil/mm3), mostrando anemia y trombocitopenia. Los animales infectados por Anaplasma sp. y Ehrlichia sp., al mismo tiempo, presentaron trombocitopenia más intensa, evidenciada en machos entre 1 y 8 años (30.000 /mm3). Infecciones por Anaplasma sp. causó una disminución severa en el recuento promedio de glóbulos rojos, evidenciada en machos (3 millones/mm3) y hembras menores de 1 año (3.79 millones/mm3).(AU)

Perfil clínico e laboratorial de cadelas sororeativas para erliquiose tratadas em um Hospital Veterinário Universitário em Niterói, Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil / Clinical and laboratory profile of dogs seroreactive to ehrlichiosis treated at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital in Niterói, State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Ehrlichiosis is a tick-borne disease highly prevalent in Brazil, and is relevant in canine clinical practice due to its high morbidity and mortality. Its clinical signs are nonspecific and its phases are acute, lasting 2 to 4 weeks; subclinical, i.e., asymptomatic; and chronic, resembling an autoimmune disease. The purpose of this study was to identify the occurrence of reactivity to Ehrlichia canis of bitches treated at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital of the Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF) - Niterói, RJ, Brazil, based on serological examination by iELISA, and to compare the hematological, biochemical, urinary protein-creatinine and urinary density profiles of reactive and non-reactive animals. This study involved solely bitches, regardless of breed, starting at 1 year of age. One hundred and thirty bitches, 1 to 16 year-old (mean age 7.02 ± 4.00), weighing 1.5 to 50 kg (mean weight 12.12 ± 10.65) were subjected to clinical examination and abdominal ultrasound. Complete blood count, biochemical measurements, urinalysis and serology for E. canis were also performed. The serum was used in the iELISA to identify immunoglobulin G (IgG), using a canine Ehrlichia Imunotest® diagnostic kit (Imunodot®, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil) according to the manufacturer's instructions. Sixty animals (46.20%) were reactive to E. canis. According to their owners, only 5 (8.3%) of the 60 seroreactive animals had a history of tick-borne disease. The most common profile was that of mixed breed animals living with their owners, older than 7 years, who had not been treated preventatively with specific drugs against ectoparasites. Laboratory tests showed significant differences between groups in terms of total protein (TP), and calcium and urinary protein-creatinine ratio (UPC). TP and UPC were elevated in the non-reactive group, while the only significant change in the reactive group was mild hypocalcemia. In this study, 30% (18/60) of the bitches were seroreactive to E. canis and had hypocalcemia. Of these, 50% (9/18) had a UPC above 0.5. Furthermore, 66.7% (12/18) of this group with hypocalcemia also showed urine density (UD) of less than 1024. Among these 18 bitches, 5 had both alterations, i.e., UPC > 0.5 and UD < 1024. In this study, a high prevalence of bitches seroreactive to Ehrlichia canis was observed, despite the absence of clinical and/or laboratory signs indicative of the disease. In the investigation of IgG class antibodies, it is not possible to determine the exact time of infection, and titers may remain high for a period of more than 11 months, even after treatment and elimination of the bacterium. The fact that most seroreactive bitches showed no symptoms compatible with the disease either before or during the study suggests that they were in the subclinical phase of ehrlichiosis. The main reason for calcium metabolism disorders is a phosphorus imbalance, a condition that occurs in kidney diseases. Isosthenuria reflects the kidney's inability to concentrate urine. This finding may be one of the first clinical manifestations of chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially in dogs. On the other hand, the UPC ratio may increase with the progression of CKD. The presence of hypocalcemia, isosthenuria and increased UPC associated with seroreactivity suggests that infection by E. canis may be associated with the onset of CKD. Veterinarians should keep in mind the complexity of the pathophysiology of ehrlichiosis to ensure the disease is not underdiagnosed in any of its phases, thereby ensuring the correct treatment is provided. Such awareness is expected to reduce the chronicity of the disease and underlying sequelae among dogs.(AU)

Prednisolone associated with doxycycline on the hematological parameters and serum proteinogram of dogs with ehrlichiosis / Efeitos da influência da prednisolona associada à doxiciclina nos parâmetros hematológicos e proteinograma sérico de cães com erliquiose

The objective of the present study was to assess the treatment of dogs with ehrlichiosis (tropical canine pancytopenia (TCP)) with doxycycline hydrochloride associated or not with prednisolone on the hematological profile and serum proteins. Ten dogs with TCP were selected in the Small Animal Medical Clinic Veterinary Hospital, Federal University of Campina Grande-UFCG-PB, Brazil. The diagnosis was obtained by clinical examination, hemogram and immunochromatographic test (with anti Ehrlichia canis antibodies). Samples were distributed randomly in two experimental groups of five animals each (n = 5), named GD and GDP. The GD group was treated with doxycycline (5 mg/kg, VO, BID for 28 days) and the GDP group was treated with doxycycline at the same dose and duration and prednisolone (2 mg/kg, VO, BID, for five days). Four blood collections were made during the treatment period: a base collection (M0), one at 10 days (M10), a second at 21 days (M21) and another at the end of the treatment (M28). These samples were used for the tests erythrogram, leucogram, plateletgram and proteinogram (dose of total proteins, pre-albumin, albumin, albumin, -1 globulin, -2 globulin, ß-globulin, -globulin and C- reactive protein) in the Clinical Pathology Laboratory, Veterinary Hospital-UFCG-PB. Results, that presented normal distribution, was submitted to the Tukey test (P 0.05). Comparison of treatments GD and GDP showed that both promoted discreet and similar response in the hematological parameters at different times. Results obtained allowed the conclusion that both therapeutic protocols resulted in clinical, hematological parameter and proteinogram improvement, but the use of prednisolone at the dose administered during the first five days of treatment did not show more beneficial effects than isolated administration of doxycycline.(AU)

Objetivou-se com este estudo avaliar os efeitos do tratamento de cães com erliquiose monocítica canina (EMC) com cloridrato de doxiciclina associada ou não à prednisolona sobre o perfil hematológico e de proteínas séricas. Foram selecionados, na Clínica Médica de Pequenos Animais do Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal de Campina Grande (UFCG), 10 cães com EMC. O diagnóstico foi obtido através de exame clínico, hemograma e teste de imunoensaio imunocromatográfico (com anticorpos anti Ehrlichia canis). As amostras foram distribuídas aleatoriamente em dois grupos experimentais, com cinco animais cada (n=5), denominados GD e GDP. O grupo GD foi tratado com doxiciclina (5 mg/kg, VO, BID durante 28 dias) e o grupo GDP, tratado com doxiciclina na mesma dose e duração e prednisolona (2 mg/kg, VO, BID, durante 5 dias). Durante o período de tratamento, foram realizadas quatro coletas de sangue; uma coleta basal (M0), uma com 10 dias (M10), uma aos 21 dias (M21) e outra ao final do tratamento (M28). Dessas amostras foram realizados eritrograma, leucograma, plaquetograma e proteinograma (dosagem de proteínas totais, pré-albumina, albumina, -1 globulina, -2 globulina, ß-globulina, -globulina e proteína C-reativa) no Laboratório de Patologia Clínica do Hospital Veterinário da UFCG. Os resultados que apresentaram distribuição normal foram submetidos ao teste de Tukey (P 0,05). Ao comparar os tratamentos GD e GDP, observou-se que os dois promoveram resposta discreta e semelhante dos parâmetros hematológicos nos diferentes momentos. Os resultados obtidos permitem concluir que ambos os protocolos terapêuticos resultaram em melhora clínica e dos parâmetros hematológicos e do proteinograma. Porém, o uso da prednisolona na dose empregada durante os primeiros cinco dias de tratamento não demonstrou efeitos mais benéficos do que a administração isolada da doxiciclina.(AU)

Hematological and histopathological changes in medular aplasia resulting from Ehrlichia canis infection in a Border collie dog / Alterações hematológicas e histopatológicas na aplasia medulardecorrente da infecção por Ehrlichia canis em cão da raça Border Collie

The Canine Monocytic Ehrlichiosis (CME) is an infectious disease that commonly affects dogs of all breeds and ages. It is caused by the bacterium Ehrlichia canis and is transmitted by the tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus. The disease may pre-sent itself in the acute, subclinical, and chronic forms. The present study reports the case of a 2-year-old male Border Collie with advanced stage CME, attended at the Pet Clinic of the Veterinary Hospital of the University Federal de Jataí, which resul-ted in medullary aplasia. The diagnosis of marrow aplasia was based on the necroscopic and histopathological examinations. At necropsy, the diaphyses of the long bones were filled with diffuse, strongly whitish and pasty tissue, typical of the adipose tissue, also found in the femoral epiphyses. The histopathology showed unilocular adipose tissue as the major constituent of the bone marrow and rare islands of marrow cells. These findings were compatible with severe hypoplasia of the red bone mar-row and hyperplasia of the white bone marrow, affecting hematopoiesis, resulting in the laboratory alterations observed in the hematocrit, WBC, and plateletogram.

A erliquiose monocítica canina (EMC) é uma doença infecciosa que comumente afeta cães de todas as raças e idades. Causada pela bactéria Ehrlichia canis e transmitida pelo carrapato Rhipicephalus sanguineus, a doença pode apresentar-se nas for-mas aguda, subclínica e crônica. O presente trabalho relata o caso de um cão, raça Border Collie, macho, 2 anos de idade, com EMC em estágio avançado, atendido no Setor de Clínica de Animais de Companhia do Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal de Jataí, caso este que resultou em aplasia medular. O diagnóstico da aplasia de medula baseou-se na realização de exames necroscópico e histopatológico. Na necropsia verificou-se a diáfise de ossos longos preenchida por tecido difuso, seve-ramente esbranquiçado e pastoso, característico de tecido adiposo, também encontrado em epífises femorais. No histopatoló-gico foi verificado tecido adiposo unilocular como maior constituinte da medula óssea e raras ilhas de células medulares. Esses achados foram compatíveis com hipoplasia severa de medula óssea vermelha e hiperplasia de medula óssea branca, afetando a hematopoiese resultando nas alterações laboratoriais verificadas no eritrograma, leucograma e plaquetograma.

Corticoterapia intralesional no tratamento de otohematoma em cães / Treating otohematomas in dogs with intra-lesional corticotherapy

Background: Otohematoma is common in dogs and is characterized by blood accumulation between the skin and cartilageof the outer ear. While the etiology is related to trauma, most cases have a predisposing condition. Treatment must drainthe hematoma and maintain appropriate skin apposition to the ear cartilage. Treatment can be surgical, but there are alsoconservative options such as puncture drainage, followed by intralesional injection of glucocorticoids. This alternativemethod is less invasive than surgery, with an equivalent success rate. This study aimed to describe intralesional injectionof corticosteroids for the treatment of dogs with otohematoma at a veterinary clinic.Materials, Methods & Results: Otohematoma was diagnosed and treated in 23 dogs (14 males and 9 females, weighing9.6 ± 2.7 kg) at a reference private veterinary clinic. The dogs were chemically restrained, and their ears were cleanedwith chlorhexidine. The lower face of each ear with otohematoma was then punctured with a needle coupled to a syringeto drain the liquid. Following drainage, the equipment was removed and the collected liquid volume was measured. A0.5 mg/kg dose of methylprednisolone acetate was prepared and diluted in saline (0.9% NaCl) to a volume equivalent to1/10 of the previously drained content volume from the otohematoma. The prepared solution was then injected into thedrained ear. Additionally, each patient was treated for the original cause of the otohematoma, according to conventionalprotocols. Eight animals (34.78%) had bilateral otohematoma and 15 (65.22%) presented with unilateral lesions. Leukocytosis was observed in most patients. Other laboratory alterations present in the studied dogs were thrombocytopenia,leukopenia, and anemia. Twenty (86.96%) patients presented with otitis externa. All patients were reassessed one weekafter the initial treatment, and 19 (82.60%) fully recovered. The remaining...

Hematological and histopathological changes in medular aplasia resulting from Ehrlichia canis infection in a Border collie dog / Alterações hematológicas e histopatológicas na aplasia medulardecorrente da infecção por Ehrlichia canis em cão da raça Border Collie

The Canine Monocytic Ehrlichiosis (CME) is an infectious disease that commonly affects dogs of all breeds and ages. It is caused by the bacterium Ehrlichia canis and is transmitted by the tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus. The disease may pre-sent itself in the acute, subclinical, and chronic forms. The present study reports the case of a 2-year-old male Border Collie with advanced stage CME, attended at the Pet Clinic of the Veterinary Hospital of the University Federal de Jataí, which resul-ted in medullary aplasia. The diagnosis of marrow aplasia was based on the necroscopic and histopathological examinations. At necropsy, the diaphyses of the long bones were filled with diffuse, strongly whitish and pasty tissue, typical of the adipose tissue, also found in the femoral epiphyses. The histopathology showed unilocular adipose tissue as the major constituent of the bone marrow and rare islands of marrow cells. These findings were compatible with severe hypoplasia of the red bone mar-row and hyperplasia of the white bone marrow, affecting hematopoiesis, resulting in the laboratory alterations observed in the hematocrit, WBC, and plateletogram.(AU)

A erliquiose monocítica canina (EMC) é uma doença infecciosa que comumente afeta cães de todas as raças e idades. Causada pela bactéria Ehrlichia canis e transmitida pelo carrapato Rhipicephalus sanguineus, a doença pode apresentar-se nas for-mas aguda, subclínica e crônica. O presente trabalho relata o caso de um cão, raça Border Collie, macho, 2 anos de idade, com EMC em estágio avançado, atendido no Setor de Clínica de Animais de Companhia do Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal de Jataí, caso este que resultou em aplasia medular. O diagnóstico da aplasia de medula baseou-se na realização de exames necroscópico e histopatológico. Na necropsia verificou-se a diáfise de ossos longos preenchida por tecido difuso, seve-ramente esbranquiçado e pastoso, característico de tecido adiposo, também encontrado em epífises femorais. No histopatoló-gico foi verificado tecido adiposo unilocular como maior constituinte da medula óssea e raras ilhas de células medulares. Esses achados foram compatíveis com hipoplasia severa de medula óssea vermelha e hiperplasia de medula óssea branca, afetando a hematopoiese resultando nas alterações laboratoriais verificadas no eritrograma, leucograma e plaquetograma.(AU)

Corticoterapia intralesional no tratamento de otohematoma em cães / Treating otohematomas in dogs with intra-lesional corticotherapy

Background: Otohematoma is common in dogs and is characterized by blood accumulation between the skin and cartilageof the outer ear. While the etiology is related to trauma, most cases have a predisposing condition. Treatment must drainthe hematoma and maintain appropriate skin apposition to the ear cartilage. Treatment can be surgical, but there are alsoconservative options such as puncture drainage, followed by intralesional injection of glucocorticoids. This alternativemethod is less invasive than surgery, with an equivalent success rate. This study aimed to describe intralesional injectionof corticosteroids for the treatment of dogs with otohematoma at a veterinary clinic.Materials, Methods & Results: Otohematoma was diagnosed and treated in 23 dogs (14 males and 9 females, weighing9.6 ± 2.7 kg) at a reference private veterinary clinic. The dogs were chemically restrained, and their ears were cleanedwith chlorhexidine. The lower face of each ear with otohematoma was then punctured with a needle coupled to a syringeto drain the liquid. Following drainage, the equipment was removed and the collected liquid volume was measured. A0.5 mg/kg dose of methylprednisolone acetate was prepared and diluted in saline (0.9% NaCl) to a volume equivalent to1/10 of the previously drained content volume from the otohematoma. The prepared solution was then injected into thedrained ear. Additionally, each patient was treated for the original cause of the otohematoma, according to conventionalprotocols. Eight animals (34.78%) had bilateral otohematoma and 15 (65.22%) presented with unilateral lesions. Leukocytosis was observed in most patients. Other laboratory alterations present in the studied dogs were thrombocytopenia,leukopenia, and anemia. Twenty (86.96%) patients presented with otitis externa. All patients were reassessed one weekafter the initial treatment, and 19 (82.60%) fully recovered. The remaining...(AU)

Anti-Ehrlichia properties of the dichloromethane fraction of Ageratum conyzoides associated with doxycycline: In vitro study / Propriedades anti-Ehrlichia da fração diclorometânica de Ageratum conyzoides associada com doxiciclina: estudo in vitro

The increasing number of cases of canine ehrlichiosis caused by Ehrlichia canis in hospitals and veterinary clinics has demonstrated the need for a new drug protocol for this disease. Doxycycline is used to treat ehrlichiosis, but the resistance of the microorganism to this treatment protocol, as well as the various side effects to the animals, has become a concern. Several studies have shown a positive interaction with extracts of plants and drugs, which allow for the reduction of the concentration necessary to produce the desired effect, minimizing adverse effects. This study determined the efficiency of the combination of the dichloromethane (DCM) fraction of Ageratum conyzoides L. with anti-Ehrlichia activity and doxycycline by using the checkerboard assay. Plant material was collected in São Luís, northeastern Brazil, followed by extraction in MeOH: H2O (8:2) and partitioning of the DCM fraction. After determining the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of the fraction under study against DH82 cells infected with Ehrlichia canis, it was combined with doxycycline to derive the Fractional Inhibitory Concentration Index (CIF Index). A reduction of 5.83 times the doxycycline minimum inhibitory concentration was observed, showing that this fraction of A. conyzoides composed predominantly by the class of lignans, identified by mass spectrometry notably intensified the activity of doxycycline against E. canis, resulting in a synergistic effect.

O crescente número de casos de erliquiose canina por Ehrlichia canis em hospitais e clínicas veterinárias tem demonstrado a necessidade de um novo protocolo de medicamentos para essa doença. A doxiciclina é usada para tratar a erliquiose, mas a resistência do microrganismo a esse protocolo de tratamento, bem como os diversos efeitos colaterais para os animais, tornou-se uma preocupação. Vários estudos têm demonstrado interação positiva com extratos de plantas e fármacos, que permitem a redução da concentração necessária para produzir o efeito desejado, minimizando os efeitos adversos. Este estudo determinou a eficiência da combinação da fração diclorometânica (DCM) de Ageratum conyzoides L. com atividade anti-Ehrlichia canis associada com doxiciclina por meio do ensaio de Checkerboard. O material vegetal foi coletado em São Luís, Maranhão, nordeste do Brasil, seguido pela extração em MeOH:H2O (8:2) e partição da fração diclorometânica. Após a determinação da Concentração Inibitória Mínima (CIM) da fração em estudo frente às células DH82 infectadas com Ehrlichia canis, a mesma foi combinada com a doxiciclina para derivação do Índice de Concentração Inibitória da Fração (Índice CIF). Observou-se uma redução de 5,83 vezes a concentração inibitória mínima da doxiciclina mostrando que esta fração de A. conyzoides, composta predominantemente por lignanas identificadas por espectrometria de massas, notavelmente intensificou a atividade desse fármaco contra E. canis, resultando em um efeito sinérgico.

Successful treatment and management of canine ehrlichiosis-leishmaniosis-heartworm comorbidity

Background: Canine vector borne diseases (CVBD) are common in tropical countries where the climate favors arthropods abundance. Comorbidity with one or more CVBD are reported as clinical complication and worsen prognostic. Canine visceral leishmaniosis (CanL) is an endemic zoonotic disease in Brazil caused by Leishmania infantum, with several restrictions to canine treatment and suggestion of reservoirs euthanasia for disease control. Heartworm (HW) is a helminthic disease caused by Dirofilaria immitis infection in dogs. It is a chronic heart disease, which can lead to death by congestive heart failure. Canine ehrlichiosis (CE) is caused by Ehrlichia canis bacterial infection with a zoonotic potential and fatal to dogs in acute and chronic presentations. Exposed the above, this study aims to describe a successful treatment and management of a dog with CanL, CE, and HW comorbidity. Case: A 3-year-old male uncastrated black Labrador dog, weighing 35 kg, was admitted to the veterinary clinic due to immunochromatographic CanL positive test performed by municipal zoonosis control center active surveillance. Clinical exam showed a mild shedding, intermittent eye white/yellow discharge and popliteal lymph nodes enlargement. After positive for CanL, veterinary requested more laboratorial exams. IFAT and ELISA were positive for CanL, blood smear showed presence of microfilaria, and bone marrow cytology showed Ehrlichia spp. morulae and microfilaria. Initial treatment prescribed was oral doxycycline, omeprazole, ranitidine, and domperidone for 30 days, and allopurinol and ivermectin until further recommendation. Additionally, repellent collar, repellent spray and vitamin supplement was indicated. After first month, marbofloxacin for 30 days and three doses of immunostimulant drug were administrated. After three months of treatment, dog still positive for heartworm, ehrlichiosis, and CanL. Doxycycline protocol was repeated. Dog became consistently negative for all pathogens one year later with persistent thrombocytopenia but without clinical signs, ergo allopurinol and ivermectin were discontinued. After 4 years of follow up, the animal had an acute pancreatitis and died, with unremarkable total blood count and negative for all pathogens. Discussion: CVBD coinfections are commonly reported as worsen prognostic in endemic regions. The pathogens reported here share a host immunomodulation competence. L. infantum and Ehrlichia spp. downregulates Th1 response, whereas D. immitis increase as Th2 profile. The therapeutic protocol was iniciated by staging CanL. Since the patient had clinical signs, allopurinol was prescribed as a well-established drug for CanL. Marbofloxacin was added due to its high safety drug in clinical improvement of infected dogs with and without renal disease and in vitro effectiveness against L. infantum. Domperidone was used to promote Th1 cytokine profile as INF-γ, IL-2, IL-12, and TNF-α. We used an immunostimulant protocol to favor polarization to the Th1 profile comprised by 30 days of domperidone protocol followed by a vaccine and an immunomodulator. Doxycycline was used successfully for Ehrlichia spp. and HE clearance after 2 treatment courses and 1 year of ivermectin every 15 days. The animal presented intermittent coughing episodes on the first treatment course, but no medical intervention was needed besides exercise restriction. Our report shows the successful management of one dog with CanL, CE and HE comorbidity. This success was possible due to early detection and good therapeutic choice.(AU)