Evaluation of canine leishmaniasis and concomitant seropositivity for Babesia canis and rickettsia in a nonendemic area in the central west region of Minas Gerais

Abstract

Among the infections caused by arthropods in dogs are Leishmania infantum, Babesia canis and rickettsias Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Studies show, in Brazil, high rates of co-infection in dogs by these agents. In Carmo da Mata, Central West of Minas Gerais there are no reports of cases of human or canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL). In this municipality, the existence and prevalence of LVC and concomitant seropositivity with B. canis and rickettsias were evaluated. In the urban area, 433 domiciled dogs were tested for Leishmania infection, with three immunological tests (rapid immunochromatography and ELISA), with a prevalence of 0.7% (95% CI: 0.2-1.9). To evaluate the concomitant seropositivity, 433 dogs were evaluated by indirect immunofluorescence reaction, with 166 (38.3%) reagents for A. phagocytophilum, 171 (39.5%) for B. canis and 231 (53.3%) for E. canis. Of the total, 192 (44.2%) presented concomitant seropositivity with the three agents. Of the three dogs with CVL, one had only CVL and two had concomitant seropositivity, one with B. canis and the third with A. phagocytophilum and E. canis. Immunosuppression caused to dogs by ehrlichiosis can lead to an increase in cases of LVC and thus, it is necessary preventive measures to avoid the expansion of LVC in the municipality.