Abstract
ABSTRACT. Chagas W.N., Moraes A.P.R., Lopes C.W.G. & Bittencourt A.J. [Histopathologic and hemathologic changes in experimentally infested rabbits by Stomoxys calcitrans]. Alterações histopatológicas e hematológicas causadas por Stomoxys calcitrans em coelhos infestados experimentalmente. Revista Brasileira de Medicina Veterinária, 33(3):165-170, 2011. Departamento de Medicina e Cirurgia Veterinária, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, BR 465 km 7, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brasil. E-mail: bittenc@ufrrj.br This study aimed to evaluate the macro and microscopic alterations in the skin of rabbits, as well as to evaluate the leukocyte response of these animals against different levels of infestation and reinfestation by stable fly, Stomoxys calcitrans (L., 1758). The histopathological findings indicated that the infestation led to the development of perivascular and interstitial dermatitis, and was compatible with hypersensitivity reaction of type I. The leukocyte count showed an increase in neutrophils and monocytes, which were associated to the specific inflammatory response. The animals underwent re-exposure showed a reduction of leukocytes and other changes in leukocyte counts that were compatible with chronic response. The histopathologic and leukocyte counts verified in this study were related to changes as being responsible for the symptoms and behavioral changes described in animals infested by the stable fly S. calcitrans previously.