An autochthonous case of visceral canine leishmaniasis in Barra do Piraí-RJ: Autochthonous case of VCL in Barra do Piraí-RJ

Abstract

Visceral Leishmaniasis, a disease caused by the protozoan Leishmania chagasi, is a re-emergent anthropozoonosis, considered a major public health problem. In the urban area, the dog (Canis familiaris) is the main source of infection and canine enzootia has preceded the occurrence of human cases, in which infection in dogs has been more prevalent than in humans. In this context, the present study reports the occurrence of an autochthonous case of Visceral Canine Leishmaniasis in Barra do Piraí, RJ. After verification of a clinic compatible with canine visceral leishmaniasis, several diagnostic exams were performed, such as cytological examination of the ear tip and lymph node puncture, rapid immunochromatographic test DPP® (Dual Path Platform), ELISA, RIFI and culture of material obtained from of skin biopsy, lymph node and bone marrow puncture. With the clinical, serological and parasitological confirmation of Leishmania spp. the dog’s owner chose to euthanize this animal and 3 months later, another positive animal residing in the same place. Based on this report, it is necessary to implement the entomological and epidemiological surveillance in the county of Barra do Piraí, in order to detect the presence of the vector and / or canine enzootia prior to the installation of the anthropozoonotic cycle, allowing to adopt actions to control the disease and the occurrence of the disease in humans.