Leptospirosis in central & eastern Uttar Pradesh, an underreported disease: A prospective cross-sectional study

Background & objective: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease associated with potentially fatal consequences and a grossly underreported disease in Uttar Pradesh. However, only a few studies are available which report the prevalence of leptospirosis in this State. Hence, this study was undertaken to know the status of the disease in central and eastern Uttar Pradesh. Methods: A total of 143 serum and urine samples were collected from patients with acute febrile illness from July 2017 to March 2019. All the serum samples were tested for Leptospira by rapid IgM antibody card and IgM ELISA and urine samples were tested by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to detect Leptospira DNA. All positive and 10 per cent negative sera from ELISA and RT-PCR (all rapid test positive were also ELISA positive) were sent to the ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Port Blair for microscopic agglutination test (MAT). Results: Thirty eight (26.6%) out of 143 samples were positive for leptospirosis either by ELISA or RT-PCR. Positive results were eight (6%) by Rapid card, 32 (22%) by IgM ELISA, 10 (7%) by MAT, 10 (7%) by RT-PCR. In MAT, the most common serovar was Lai followed by Hebdomadis, Bangkinang and Pomona. Interpretation & conclusions: Leptospirosis was found to be one of the important causes for acute febrile illness in the central and eastern parts of Uttar Pradesh. The results of the present study suggest that it is necessary to increase diagnostic facility and awareness in clinicians for the screening of leptospirosis in acutely febrile patients to decrease morbidity and mortality associated with this disease.

Antibodies against Leptospira spp. in bovine serum samples from several Brazilian states analyzed in the period from 2007 to 2015 / [Anticorpos contra Leptospira spp. em amostra de soro bovino de diversos estados brasileiros analisados no período entre 2007 e 2015]

Bovine leptospirosis assumes great economic importance since it affects several production aspects. Therefore, knowledge about the occurrence and distribution of this disease is fundamental to adopt the correct prevention measures. The present study aimed to evaluate the frequency of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies in 24,483 bovine serum samples received between 2007 to 2015 from 21 Brazilian states. Of these, 8,643 (35.3%) were reagents in the microscopic agglutination test to one or more serovars of Leptospira spp. The most frequent serovars were Wolffi (61.47%), Tarassovi (9.62%) and Pomona (7.20%). Hardjo serovar presented a prevalence of 6.27%. Among the 21 states analyzed, the State of Pernambuco had the highest frequency with 88.24% and the State of São Paulo was the origin of the largest number of analyzed samples (13,838), with a frequency of 31.54% of reagents. The results demonstrate a high exposure to several serovars of Leptospira spp. in bovine species in Brazilian states, showing the importance of adopting prophylactic measures in order to reduce the risk of infection in this specie.(AU)

Com o objetivo de avaliar a frequência de anticorpos anti-Leptospira spp., foram analisadas 24.483 amostras de soro sanguíneo bovino, provenientes de 21 estados brasileiros, recebidas no período de 2007 a 2015. Destas, 8.643 (35,3%) foram reagentes no teste de soroaglutinação microscópica a uma ou mais sorovariedades de Leptospira spp., e as sorovariedades com maior frequência foram Wolffi (61,47%), Tarassovi (9,62%) e Pomona (7,20%). A sorovariedade Hardjo apresentou prevalência de 6,27%. Entre os 21 estados analisados, o estado de Pernambuco apresentou a maior frequência, com 88,24%, e o estado de São Paulo foi a origem do maior número de amostras para análise, 13.838, com frequência de 31,54% de reagentes.(AU)

Epidemiological characteristics of Leptospira spp. infection in bovine herds in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil / Caracterização soroepidemiológica da infecção por Leptospira spp. em rebanhos bovinos de corte do estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil

The epidemiological characteristics of bovine leptospirosis in animals and herds in Mato Grosso do Sul were investigated to determine parameters such as disease frequency and the serovars reactant in beef cattle herds. A total of 4,629 beef cattle herds were examined against 33 Leptospira spp. serovars. The serum samples were submitted to the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) for the serological diagnosis of leptospirosis. The MAT results showed that 3,814 (82.39%) of the 4,629 animals evaluated were seropositive for the bacterium, with serological reactions mainly to serogroup Sejroe, serovar Wolffi (36.49%). The observed high frequency of reactive animals demonstrates the relevance of the infection. Therefore, general and specific measures should be implemented to contain and/or prevent infection of the animals in the studied region.(AU)

Foi realizado um inquérito epidemiológico da leptospirose em bovinos de rebanhos de corte do estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, de modo a determinar a frequência e as sorovariedades reagentes. Para isso, foram examinados 4.629 bovinos de corte, com uma coleção de 33 sorovariedades de Leptospira, por meio da prova de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (MAT). Dos 4.629 animais examinados, 3.814 (82,39%) foram reagentes com reações predominates para o sorogrupo Sejroe, sorovar Wolffi (36,49%). Assim, a alta frequência de animais reagentes encontrada justifica a implantação de medidas gerais e específicas para conter e/ou prevenir a infecção nos animais dessa região.(AU)

Leptospirosis diagnosis among patients suspected of dengue fever in Brazil

The early symptoms of leptospirosis and dengue fever are difficult to distinguish and can cause diagnostic confusion. Due to the large dengue epidemics that has occurred in Brazil in recent years, it is possible that cases of leptospirosis were unreported. Therefore, we performed a retrospective study to detect leptospirosis in patients who were tested for dengue, but whose laboratory diagnoses were negative. Methods: Sera samples from 2,017 patients from 48 cities located in the central region of São Paulo state, Brazil, were studied. All samples were subjected to the microscopic agglutination test (MAT), 305 of which were taken from patients five days or less since the onset of symptoms, and were additionally subjected to real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: The overall prevalence of leptospirosis cases was 21 (1.04%), with 20 through MAT (18 for Icterohaemorrhagiae and two for the Cynopteri serogroup) and one through PCR (amplicon sequencing compatible with Leptospira interrogans). According to previously established criteria, eight cases of leptospirosis were classified as "confirmed" and 13 as "probable". The Brazilian notification system for health surveillance had no records for 16 patients positive for leptospirosis and, thus, they were considered unreported cases. Statistical analyses revealed that the prevalence of leptospirosis was higher in men (1.56%) than in women (0.56%), and the mean age was higher in positive patients (43.7 years) than in negative ones (32.3 years). Conclusion: The results indicated that patients suspected of dengue fever had evidence of leptospirosis or Leptospira infection, and most of these cases were unreported in the Brazilian notification system. The high burden of dengue may contribute to the misdiagnosis of leptospirosis, and health professionals should increase their awareness of leptospirosis as an important differential diagnosis of patients with suspicion of dengue.(AU)

Detection of anti-Leptospira spp. agglutinins in captive South American river turtles, Podocnemis expansa

Leptospirosis is a zoonosis transmitted by contact with infected urine or water contaminated with the agent. Searches for Leptospira spp. in reptiles are scarce although most species have contact with aquatic environments. We evaluated the presence of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies in Podocnemis expansa housed at the Amazonian Zoobotanical Garden, in Belém, Pará state, Brazil. We analyzed 74 serum samples through the microscopic agglutination test using 31 live antigens from different Leptospira spp. serogroups. Thirty samples (40.5%) were positive against Leptospira spp., with titrations between 100 and 3,200 for one or more serogroups. The Hebdomadis serogroup was the most prevalent, with 26 (87%) out of the 30 positive samples, followed by Djasiman, with two (7%) and Celledoni and Bataviae with one (3%) sample each. The detection of anti-Leptospira spp. agglutinins in P. expansa suggests that the aquatic environment is a transmission route for this pathogen among chelonians. (AU)

Serologic Evidence of Leptospirosis in Patients Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital, Central Kerala, India- A Retrospective Study.

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease seen all over the world caused by pathogenic members of the genus Leptospira. Humans are infected by direct or indirect contact with an environment contaminated by urine of infected animals such as rodents, cattle and dogs. As the clinical manifestations of leptospirosis are nonspecific, laboratory diagnostic methods are needed for definitive diagnosis.METHODSThis is a retrospective study conducted in the Department of Microbiology, Government Medical College, Kottayam, Kerala, in patients with clinical features of acute febrile illness from January 2015 to December 2018. A total of 2941 blood samples were received for leptospira serology. They were subjected to specific anti leptospira IgM ELISA by Panbio Diagnostics, Brisbane, Australia. In the year 2018, 43 samples received during flood period were subjected to PCR, in addition to antileptospira IgM ELISA. For PCR, blood in EDTA, CSF and urine were sent to Manipal Centre for Virus Research, Karnataka. Twenty-five blood samples were sent for Microscopic Agglutination Test to Department of Veterinary Microbiology, College of Veterinary and Animal sciences, Mannuthy, India. Modified Faine’s criteria were assessed based on clinical, epidemiological and laboratory findings.RESULTSAmong 2941 cases of acute febrile illness, 777 (26.4 %) cases were serologically positive (IgM ELISA) for leptospirosis. Among 777 cases, maximum cases 481 (61.9 %) were seen during the year 2018, followed by 106 (13.64 %) cases during the year 2016, 104 cases (13.38 %) during the year 2015 and 86 (11.06 %) cases during the year 2017. Maximum cases were seen during the month of August, September, and October. Among 43 cases during flood 2018, 35 were (81.4 %) males and 8 (18.6%) were females. Maximum cases were seen in the age group of 41-50 years. Among the 43 cases, fever was present in all the 43 (100%) cases followed by myalgia in 36 (83.7 %) cases. Headache was seen in 22 (51.16%) cases, jaundice in 16 (37.2%) cases, cough and breathlessness in 15 (34.9%) cases, conjunctival suffusion in 13 (30.2% ), oliguria in 13 (30.2%) cases, vomiting in 11 (25.6 %) cases, abdominal pain in 7 (16.3%) cases, diarrhoea in 4 (9.3% ) cases, altered sensorium in 3 (6.9%) cases. Among complications, acute kidney injury was seen in 13 (30.2%) cases, followed by respiratory injury (ARDS) requiring mechanical ventilation in 10 (23.3%) cases and myocarditis in 4 (9.3%) cases.CONCLUSIONSLeptospirosis is a zoonotic disease of protean clinical manifestations with difficulty in diagnosis. Confirmation by diagnostic test is essential so that early diagnosis helps in early treatment and prevention of complications in turn reducing mortality.

Leptospirosis in slaughtered cows in the Triangulo Mineiro, Minas Gerais: prevalence, serological profile and renal lesions / Leptospirose em vacas abatidas no Triângulo Mineiro, Minas Gerais: prevalência, perfil sorológico e lesões renais

Leptospirosis is a zoonosis that affects several species of domestic and wild animals and is an important cause of economic losses in cattle in Brazil. In this study, we determined the prevalence of bovine leptospirosis in the Triângulo Mineiro region, Minas Gerais, Brazil, identified the most frequent serovars of Leptospira interrogans, and examine the renal pathological changes associated with the disease. Samples of blood serum and kidney fragments from 100 bovine females were collected in cattle abattoir. In the serological investigation 48% of the cows were positive. The serovars for which there were more reactive animals were Wolffi (24%), Hardjo (21%) and Hebdomadis (18%). Among the positive samples, 14/48 showedantibody titers greater than 1:100, and 70.83% of the seropositive animals responded to more than one Leptospira interrogans serovar. Only one farm did not have seropositive cows and in nine farms studied, six (66.66%) presented seropositive animals to the Hebdomadis serovar. At the histopathological examination, the most frequent microscopic lesions in positive animals were hyalinization (81.25%), congestion (81.25%) and hydropic degeneration (70.83%). However, these histopathological alterations were also found in kidneys of animals negative to serology, such as hyalinization (80.77%), congestion (48.07%) and hydropic degeneration (55.77%) and these findings are unrelated to positivity. Histopathological examination of the kidneys is not indicated to replace the serological diagnosis of leptospirosis, and may be used only as a complementary examination. Despite the low frequency of seropositive animals in the Triângulo Mineiro region, the disease is present in a large number of farms. Noteworthy is the high frequency of serovar Hebdomadis and it can be considered an emerging serovar in the region. The evaluation of the frequency of this serovar in other regions becomes important, and once verified should result in the recommendation of the inclusion of this serovar in the leptospirosis control.

A leptospirose é uma zoonose que afeta várias espécies de animais domésticos e silvestres e importante causa de prejuízos à bovinocultura nacional. Objetivou-se determinar a prevalência da leptospirose e identificar os sorovares de Leptospira interrogans mais freqüentes na região do Triângulo Mineiro, além de avaliar microscopicamente as lesões renais e correlacionar estas lesões com sorovares específicos. Foram coletadas amostras de soro sanguíneo e fragmentos de rim de 100 fêmeas bovinas em abatedouro e, destas 100 amostras, 48% foram positivas. Os sorovares para os quais houve mais animais reagentes foram Wolffi (24%), hardjo (21%) e Hebdomadis (18%). Dentre as amostras positivas, 14/48 apresentaram títulos de anticorpos aglutinantes superiores a 1:100 e notou-se que 70,83% dos animais soropositivos reagiram a mais de um sorovar de Leptospira interrogans. Somente uma propriedade não possuía vacas sororreagentes para leptospirose e das nove propriedades estudadas, seis (66,66%) apresentaram animais soropositivos ao sorovar Hebdomadis. Ao exame histopatológico, as alterações microscópicas mais encontradas em animais positivos foram hialinização (81,25%), congestão (81,25%) e degeneração hidrópica (70,83%). Porém, essas alterações histopatológicas também foram encontradas em rins de animais negativos à sorologia, como hialinização (80,77%), congestão (48,07%) e degeneração hidrópica (55,77%) e estes achados não apresentaram correlação com positividade. O exame histopatológico dos rins não é indicado para substituir o diagnóstico sorológico da leptospirose, podendo ser utilizado somente como um exame complementar. Apesar da frequência de animais sororreagentes ser baixa na região do Triângulo Mineiro, a doença está presente em um grande número depropriedades. Chama a atenção a alta frequência do sorovar Hebdomadis, podendo ser considerado um sorovar emergente na região. A avaliação da frequência deste sorovar em outras regiões se torna importante, pois uma vez verificada, deve resultar na recomendação da inclusão deste sorovar no controle da leptospirose.

Seroepidemiology of Toxoplasma gondii in domestic cattle, sheep, goats and pigs from São Tomé and Príncipe / Soroepidemiologia de Toxoplasma gondii em bovinos, ovinos, caprinos e suínos domésticos de São Tomé e Príncipe

Abstract Despite the global importance of the zoonotic parasite Toxoplasma gondii, little is known regarding its infection in the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe (DRSTP). This is the first report of antibodies to T. gondii in cattle, sheep, goats and pigs from the DRSTP. Antibodies were assessed by the modified agglutination test (MAT), with a cut-off titer of 100 for cattle and 20 for sheep, goats and pigs. The present study revealed an overall seroprevalence of 55.8%; 27.1% in 48 cattle, 68.4% in 98 sheep, 70.1% in 97 goats and 43.7% in 103 pigs. The south geographical area for cattle, the central area for sheep, and adult age and living in the central region for goats were found to be risk factors for seropositivity to T. gondii. These results support the scenario of a considerable presence of sporulated oocysts as well as of infected intermediate hosts in the local environment. Consumption of raw or undercooked meat should be considered as an important potential source of infection for animals and humans in the DRSTP.

Resumo Apesar da importância global do parasita zoonótico Toxoplasma gondii, pouco se conhece sobre sua infecção na República Democrática de São Tomé e Príncipe (RDSTP). Esse é o primeiro relato de anticorpos para T. gondii em bovinos, ovinos, caprinos e suínos da RDSTP. Os anticorpos foram pesquisados pelo teste de aglutinação direta modificada (TADM), com um título de corte de 100 para bovinos e de 20 para ovinos, caprinos e suínos. O presente estudo revelou uma soroprevalência global de 55,8%: 27,1% em 48 bovinos, 68,4% em 98 ovinos, 70,1% em 97 caprinos e 43,7% em 103 suínos. A área geográfica sul para os bovinos, a área central para os ovinos, bem como a idade adulta e a região central para os caprinos foram considerados fatores de risco para soropositividade a T. gondii. Esses resultados suportam o cenário de uma considerável presença de oocistos esporulados, bem como de hospedeiros intermediários infectados no ambiente local. O consumo de carne crua ou mal passada deve ser considerado como uma importante fonte potencial de infecção para animais e seres humanos na RDSTP.

Presence of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies in captive yellow-spotted river turtles (Podocnemis unifilis) in the Eastern Amazon / Presença de anticorpos anti-Leptospira spp. em tracajás (Podocnemis unifilis) na Amazônia Oriental

ABSTRACT: We describe anti-Leptospira spp. agglutinin in yellow-spotted river turtles (Podocnemis unifilis)in the Amazon region. Ninety-eight serum samples from individuals housed at the Bosque Rodrigues Alves Zoobotanical Garden of Amazonia, Belém, PA, Brazil, were subject to the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) using 19 different Leptospira spp. antigen serogroups. Thirty-four of the 98 samples (35%) were reactive, with titers ranging from 100 to 3200, and eight 8 reactive samples (23.5%) co-agglutinated under two or more serovars.The most common serogroup was Hebdomadis (26.9%, 7/26), followed by Semaranga (23%, 6/26), Shermani (19.2%, 5/26), Djasiman (11.5%, 3/26), and Australis (7.7%, 2/26); Bataviae, Javanica, and Sejroewere represented by a single sample each (3.9%). The presence of turtles reactive to anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies implies exposure to the pathogen.

RESUMO: Este trabalho descreve a detecção de aglutininas anti-Leptospira spp. em tracajás (Podocnemis unifilis) na região Amazônica. Obtivemos 98 amostras de soro, as quais foram submetidas ao teste de aglutinação microscópica (MAT), utilizando 31 antígenos de diferentes sorogrupos de Leptospira spp. Das 98 amostras de soro coletadas, 35% (34/98) reagiram apresentando titulações de 100 a 3200; 23,53% dessas amostras (8/34) coaglutinaram na presença de dois ou mais sorovares. O sorogrupo mais comum foi Hebdomadis com 26,9% (7/26), seguido de Semaranga com 23% (6/26), Shermani com 19,2% (5/26), Djasiman com 11,5% (3/26), e Australis com 7,7% (2/26). Bataviae, Javanica, e Sejroe foram representados com apenas uma amostra (3,9%). A presença de tracajás reagentes a anticorpos contra Leptospira spp. implica na exposição ao patógeno.

Diagnosis of Cryptococcosis in Dogs by Latex Agglutination Test and Enzyme Immunoassay

Cryptococcus spp. is a pathogenic fungus which is an increasingly important cause of infection, particularly in the immunocompromised hosts. Diagnosis of cryptococcosis in animals can be carried out by isolation of the fungus but this requires several days to detect and identify the organism. Detection of cryptococcal antigen by latex agglutination test and enzyme immunoassay in serum is a rapid and easy method for diagnosis of cryptococcosis. In the present study, a total of 142 blood samples were collected from apparently healthy (n=89) and diseased dogs (n=53) for diagnosis of cryptococcosis. Latex agglutination test and enzyme immunosorbent assay (EIA) were carried out for the detection of cryptococcal antigen in serum. Of the 142 serum samples tested, six samples tested positive by Latex agglutination test while one sample tested positive by EIA. The sample which was positive by EIA was also positive by Latex agglutination test. The serum samples of dogs that tested positive for cryptococcal antigen were obtained from dogs suffering from symptoms like bloody faeces and vomit, emesis, chronic ear infection and discharge. Based on our findings, we conclude that the latex agglutination test in combination with the enzyme immunoassay can be used for the diagnosis of Cryptococcosis in dogs

Caracterización epidemiológica de la infección por Leptospira spp. en caballos de trabajo y en personas ocupacionalmente expuestas en seis unidades de la Policía Nacional de Colombia / Epidemiological characterization of Leptospira spp. infection in working horses and in an occupationally exposed population in six Colombian police stations

Resumen Introducción. Los caballos de trabajo de la Policía Nacional tienen un estrecho contacto con sus manejadores y la población en general durante las actividades recreativas y de patrullaje, lo cual puede favorecer la transmisión de la leptospirosis en los caballos y el personal ocupacionalmente expuesto. Objetivo. Caracterizar epidemiológicamente la leptospirosis mediante pruebas de serología, urocultivo y reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (Polymerase Chain Reaction, PCR) en caballos de trabajo y personal con riesgo ocupacional pertenecientes a seis unidades de la Policía Nacional de Colombia. Materiales y métodos. Se evaluaron 153 caballos machos castrados y 123 personas en las seis unidades en los municipios de Manizales, Pereira, Armenia, Ibagué, Tuluá y Cali. Se utilizaron tres formatos estructurados para recabar información y se obtuvieron muestras sanguíneas de las personas y de los caballos, las cuales se procesaron con la prueba de aglutinación microscópica (Macroscopic Agglutination Test, MAT) para 24 serogrupos. Se practicó el examen clínico de los caballos y se obtuvieron muestras de orina para el urocultivo y la PCR convencional. Resultados. La seroprevalencia de Leptospira spp. fue de 3,25 % (n=4) en las personas y de 85 % (n=130) en los caballos. Entre los caballos, los serogrupos Djasiman y Shermani fueron los más prevalentes. El urocultivo fue positivo en el 64,7 % (99/153) de las muestras, en tanto que los análisis de PCR fueron negativos. Se encontró una asociación estadísticamente significativa de la frecuencia de salida de las instalaciones (p=0,009) y la presencia de fauna silvestre (p=0,051) con la infección por el serogrupo Shermani. Conclusión. Las características epidemiológicas de la leptospirosis en los caballos sugieren una presentación endémica de la infección y su papel como reservorios de la bacteria; sin embargo, debe dilucidarse la patogenia de la enfermedad con estudios complementarios.

Abstract Introduction: Police working horses are in close contact with their managers and the general population during recreational and patrol activities, which can favor the transmission of leptospirosis among the horses and the occupationally exposed personnel. Objective. To characterize epidemiologically leptospirosis through serology, urine culture and PCR in working horses and in the occupationally exposed population in six police stations in Colombia. Materials and methods. We tested 153 castrated male horses and 123 people in six police stations in the municipalities of Manizales, Pereira, Armenia, Ibagué, Tuluá, and Cali. Three structured formats were applied and blood samples were obtained from people and horses, which were processed with the Macroscopic Agglutination Test, (MAT) for 24 serogroups. Horses were subject to a clinical examination, and urine samples were obtained for urine culture and conventional PCR. Results. The seroprevalence of human Leptospira spp. was 3.25% (n=4) while in horses it was 85% (n=130). Among the horses, serogroups Djasiman and Shermani were the most prevalent. The urine culture was positive in 64.7% (99/153) of the samples, whereas PCR analyzes were negative. A statistically significant association was found between the frequency of exiting the facilities (p=0.009) and the presence of wildlife (p=0.0051) with the infection by serogroup Shermani. Conclusion. The epidemiological characteristics of leptospirosis in horses suggest an endemic presentation of the infection and its role as reservoirs of the bacteria; however, it is necessary to elucidate the pathogenesis of the disease with complementary studies.

Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Leishmania spp. in domestic donkeys from Portugal / Soroprevalência de Toxoplasma gondii e Leishmania spp. em jumentos domésticos de Portugal

Abstract Toxoplasma gondii and Leishmania infantum are zoonotic protozoal parasites. Serum samples were obtained from 186 donkeys (Equus africanus asinus) from Portugal and assessed for antibodies to T. gondii by the modified agglutination test (MAT). For titration of antibodies to Leishmania spp. the direct agglutination test was used (DAT). Eleven donkeys were seropositive for T. gondii with titres of 20 (n = 7), 80 (n = 2), 640 (n = 1) and ≥ 2560 (n = 1). One donkey was seropositive for Leishmania spp. (titre of 800). Donkeys in Portugal are exposed to and can be infected with T. gondii and Leishmania spp.

Resumo Toxoplasma gondii e Leishmania infantum são protozoários parasitas com potencial zoonótico. Foram obtidas amostras de soro de 186 jumentos (Equus africanus asinus) e avaliadas para anticorpos anti-T. gondii pelo teste de aglutinação direta modificada (TADM), em Portugal. Para a titulação de anticorpos anti-Leishmania spp. foi usado o teste de aglutinação direta (TAD). Onze jumentos foram soropositivos para T. gondii com títulos de 20 (n = 7), 80 (n = 2), 640 (n = 1) e ≥ 2560 (n = 1). Um jumento foi soropositivo para Leishmania spp. (título de 800). Os jumentos em Portugal estão expostos e podem ser infectados com T. gondii e Leishmania spp.

Prevalence and risk factors to Leptospira sp. infection in dogs attended at veterinary clinics in João Pessoa, Paraíba State, Northeastern Brazil / Prevalência e fatores de risco da infecção por Leptospira sp. em cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias em João Pessoa, Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil

This study investigated the prevalence and risk factors associated with Leptospira sp. in dogs attended at veterinary clinics in the city of João Pessoa, State of Paraíba, Northeast Brazil. A total of 384 blood samples from dogs from 34 veterinary clinics were used from April 2015 to May 2016. The serological Leptospira sp diagnosis was carried out through Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT), using a collection of 20 pathogenic antigens and adopting a 1:100 dilution as cutoff point. An epidemiological questionnaire was applied to the animal's owners to obtain the information used in risk factors analysis. The prevalence of seropositive animals was 11.7% (45/384), with reactions for serogroups Icterohaemorrhagiae (62.3%), Grippotyphosa (22.2%), Canicola (13.3%), Djasiman 2%) and Pomona (2.2%). The following risk factors were identified: age from 49 to 72 months (odds ratio = 2.74); Age > 72 months (odds ratio = 3.22); and monthly cleaning of the environment where the animals were kept (odds ratio = 10.70). We concluded that dogs attended at veterinary clinics in João Pessoa are exposed to Leptospira sp infection, with predominance of serogroups kept by wild or synanthropic animals, and suggest a monthly periodic environment cleaning where the animals are kept.(AU)

O presente trabalho investigou a prevalência e os fatores de risco associados à infecção por Leptospira sp. em cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias da cidade de João Pessoa, Estado da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. Foram utilizadas 384 amostras sanguíneas de cães provenientes de 34 clínicas veterinárias no período de abril de 2015 a maio de 2016. O diagnóstico da infecção por Leptospira sp. foi realizado com o emprego reação de Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM), utilizando uma coleção com 20 antígenos patogênicos e adotando como ponto de corte a diluição 1:100. Foi aplicado um questionário epidemiológico aos proprietários dos animais para obtenção de dados a serem utilizados na análise de fatores de risco. A prevalência de animais soropositivos foi de 11,7% (45/384), com reações para os sorogrupos Icterohaemorrhagiae (62,3%), Grippotyphosa (22,2%), Canicola (13,3%), Djasiman (2,2%) e Pomona (2,2%). Foram identificados os seguintes fatores de risco: idade entre 49 e 72 meses (odds ratio = 2,74), idade maior que 72 meses (odds ratio = 3,22), e limpeza mensal do ambiente onde os animais permanecem (odds ratio = 10,70). Conclui-se que cães atendidos em clínicas veterinárias de João Pessoa estão expostos à infecção por Leptospira sp., com predominância de sorogrupos mantidos por animais selvagens, e foi sugerida a realização da limpeza periódica do ambiente ocupado pelos animais.(AU)

Evaluation of an in-house LipL32 polymerase chain reaction for diagnosis of leptospirosis and its correlation with various serological diagnostic techniques

Background: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease of ubiquitous distribution. During rainy seasons, in spring and summer and also during harvest times, the risk of leptospirosis increases as there are chances of frequent contact with infected rat population which is common in Karnataka as farming is a main source of income to the people here. There is a paucity of data regarding the prevalent serovars from Karnataka. This study was undertaken as an attempt to compare a battery of tools such as immunochromatographic test (ICT), microscopic agglutination test (MAT), immunoglobulin M (IgM) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and in-house polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect leptospirosis. Settings and Design: This study using consecutive sampling technique was conducted in a tertiary care centre, Mysore, Karnataka. Subjects and Methods: Samples from 783 suspected cases of leptospirosis in and around Mysore between April 2013 and April 2016 were processed. Samples from 783 patients suspected of leptospirosis were subjected to ICT, IgM ELISA, MAT and in-house PCR. Statistical Analysis Used: The statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS software version. Results: Among 783 samples tested, only 14 (1.7%) were positive by ICT, 341 (44%) were positive by IgM ELISA, 368 (47%) were positive by MAT and 393 (50.2%) were positive by in-house PCR. Conclusions: Mysore can be considered endemic for leptospirosis. The in-house PCR based on LipL32 gene proved to be useful in the early diagnosis of leptospirosis.

Detection of immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G antibodies to Mycoplasma pneumoniae in children with community-acquired lower respiratory tract infections

Context: Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M. pneumoniae) causes up to 40% of community-acquired pneumonia in children. It is impossible to identify M. pneumoniae infection on the basis of clinical signs, symptoms, and radiological features. Therefore, correct etiological diagnosis strongly depends on laboratory diagnosis. Aims: This study aims to investigate the role of M. pneumonia e in pediatric lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) employing enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and particle agglutination (PA) test. Settings and Design: Two hundred and eighty children, age 6 months to 12 years with community-acquired LRTIs were investigated for M. pneumoniae etiology. Materials and Methods: We investigated 280 children hospitalized for community-acquired LRTIs, using ELISA and PA test for detecting M. pneumoniae immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G antibodies. Statistical Analysis Used: The difference of proportion between the qualitative variables was tested using the Chi-square test and Fischer exact test. P ≤ 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Kappa value was used to assess agreement between ELISA and PA test. Results: M. pneumoniae was positive in 51 (23.2%) <5 years and 33 (54.0%) children in ≥5 years of age group, and this difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Clinical and radiological findings in M. pneumoniae positive and negative groups were comparable. ELISA detected M. pneumoniae in 78 (27.8%) and PA test 39 (13.9%) patients; 33 (84.6%) ELISA positive and 6 (15.4%) ELISA negative. ELISA/PA test together detected M. pneumoniae infection in 84 (30%) children. Conclusions: Our data underline that M. pneumoniae plays an important role in children with community-acquired LRTIs and more particularly in children >5 years of age.

Detection of antibodies against Leptospira spp in free-living marsupials caught in the Eastern Amazon

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Serological surveys are important to assess the health status of wild animals. In this study, antibodies against Leptospira spp, causal agents of leptospirosis, were detected in free-living marsupials in the State of Pará, Brazil. METHODS: Nineteen blood samples collected from marsupials in the municipalities of Peixe-Boi, Viseu, and Castanhal were subjected to microscopic agglutination tests. RESULTS: In total, 36.8% (7/19) of samples were positive, and two exhibited co-agglutination. The most frequent serovars were Icterohaemorrhagiae (60%; 3/5), Panama (20%; 1/5), and Nupezo (20%; 1/5). CONCLUSIONS: Anti-Leptospira spp antibodies currently circulate in free-living marsupials in Northeastern Pará.

Serological and molecular detection of leptospira spp in dogs

Abstract INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to detect anti-Leptospira spp antibodies and Leptospira DNA in domestic dogs. METHODS: Blood and urine from 106 dogs were evaluated by microscopic agglutination test (MAT) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), respectively. RESULTS: Six (5.7%) and one (1%) animals were positive by MAT and PCR, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: These results show a low prevalence of infection by Leptospira spp. The absence of positive results for the Icterohaemorrhagiae serogroup indicates the small relevance of these dogs as sources of human leptospirosis.

Evaluación de un antígeno de Brucella abortus para aglutinación en placa como prueba tamiz en el diagnóstico de la brucelosis bovina / Evaluation of a Brucella abortus antigen for plaque agglutination as screening test in the diagnosis of bovine brucellosis

Este trabajo tuvo como objetivo obtener y validar un antígeno buferado de Brucella abortus para la prueba de aglutinación en placa como prueba diagnóstica de base de la brucelosis bovina. Se formularon tres lotes de antígeno a partir de la multiplicación de la cepa 99 de Brucella abortus. Se realizaron los controles de calidad correspondientes (determinación de pH, volumen celular, esterilidad, capacidad buferante) y las pruebas serológicas para la evaluación del desempeño. Se emplearon 1070 muestras de suero bovino (350 positivas y 720 negativas) previamente controladas con las pruebas de diagnóstico establecidas. Se determinó la sensibilidad y especificidad diagnóstica y relativa, los valores predictivos positivos y negativos, la eficacia y la concordancia. En los tres lotes todas las características evaluadas resultaron estar dentro de los parámetros establecidos para este tipo de producto. La especificidad y sensibilidad diagnósticas fueron de 99,5 por ciento y 100 por ciento respectivamente. El valor predictivo positivo fue de 99,1 por ciento, el valor predictivo negativo fue de 100 por ciento y la eficacia de un 99,7 por ciento. El antígeno mostró una sensibilidad y especificidad relativas de un 100 por ciento y la concordancia resultó ser clasificada como muy buena. La evaluación del desempeño arrojó resultados satisfactorios, demostrando que el método de producción empleado es factible para la obtención de un producto con adecuada eficacia(AU)

The objective of this work was to obtain and validate a buffered Brucella abortus antigen for plaque agglutination test as the basic diagnostic test for bovine brucellosis. Three batches of antigen were formulated from the multiplication of strain 99 of Brucella abortus. Quality controls (determination of pH, cell volume, sterility, buffering capacity) and serological tests for performance evaluation were performed. 1070 bovine serum samples (350 positive and 720 negative) previously tested with the established diagnostic tests were used. Diagnostic and relative sensitivity and specificity, positive predictive values and negative predictive values, efficacy and concordance were determined. In all lots the evaluated characteristics proved to be within the parameters established for this type of product. Diagnostic specificity and sensitivity were 99.5 percent and 100 percent, respectively. The positive predictive values was 99.1 percent, the negative predictive values was 100 percent and the efficacy was 99.7 percent. The antigen showed a relative sensitivity and specificity of 100 percent and the concordance was classified as very good. The performance evaluation showed satisfactory results, demonstrating that the production method used is feasible to obtain a product with adequate efficiency(AU)

Diagnostic utility of an immunochromatography test for the detection of Leptospira IgM antibodies in domestic dogs

A cross-sectional study using 99 serum samples of dogs from southern Chile was conducted to determine the diagnostic utility of a rapid immunochromatography assay for the detection of Leptospira specific IgM antibodies as screening test and as a potential aid in the diagnosis of leptospirosis in animals with and without clinical suspicion of the disease. The Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT) was used as reference assay. Anti-Leptospira antibodies were detected in 37.3% of the dogs with MAT. Using the immunochromatography test, specific IgM antibodies were found in 13.1% of sampled dogs. The sensitivity of the rapid test as screening assay was 29.7% (95% Confidence Interval=16.4-47.2) and the specificity was 96.7% (95% Confidence Interval=87.8-99.4). 40.0% of the canines with clinical suspicion of leptospirosis and 37.1% of dogs without clinical signs were serological reactors to MAT, but none of MAT reactive dogs with clinical suspicion tested positive in the rapid test. Rapid and user-friendly diagnostic procedures for canine leptospirosis such as this immunochromatography assay could be important tools to use in clinical practice, however, further studies are needed to obtain more information about their utility, considering that diagnostic tests could not have similar performances in different geographic locations, clinical and epidemiological contexts.(AU)

Anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in mammals, birds and reptiles at the zoological-botanical park in João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil / Anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii em mamíferos, aves e répteis no parque zoobotânico em João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brasil

The purpose of this study was to verify the occurrence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in 51 wild animals at the Arruda Câmara Zoological-Botanical Park in João Pessoa, PB, Brazil. Blood samples from different bird, mammal and reptile species were analyzed using the Modified Agglutination Test (MAT) with a cut-off point of 1:25. Anti-T. gondii antibodies were detected in 62.4% of the 51 tested animals. The following frequencies were found: 68.9% (20/29) in mammals, 80% (8/10) in birds, and 33.3% (4/12) in reptiles. This paper reports for the first time the occurrence of anti-T. gondii antibodies in birds of the species Pionites leucogaster (caíque), Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus (hyacinth macaw), Pavo cristatus (Indian peafowl), Urubitinga urubitinga (Brazilian eagle), and Buteo melanoleucus (black-and-white hawk-eagle). Reptiles of the species Caiman crocodilus (spectacled caiman), Chelonoidis carbonaria (red-footed tortoise) and Paleosuchus palpebrosus (Cuvier's dwarf caiman) were seropositive for T. gondii, although the significance of the presence of these anti-T. gondii antibodies in this group of animals requires a more in-depth study. We conclude that the frequency of antibodies found in the animals of this zoo is high and that the prophylactic measures that aim to diminish the environmental contamination by oocysts are necessary.(AU)

Este trabalho teve como objetivo verificar a ocorrência de anticorpos anti-Toxoplasma gondii em 51 animais silvestres mantidos no Parque Zoobotânico Arruda Câmara, João Pessoa, Brasil. Para isso, foram avaliadas amostras sanguíneas de diferentes espécies de aves, mamíferos e répteis por meio do Teste de Aglutinação Modificado (MAT) com ponto de corte de 1:25. Dos 51 animais testados, 62,4% apresentaram anticorpos anti-T. gondii. Nos mamíferos, a frequência encontrada foi de 68,9% (20/29), em aves foi de 80% (8/10) e em répteis de 33,3% (4/12). Pela primeira vez é relatada a ocorrência de anticorpos anti-T. gondii em aves das espécies Pionites leucogaster (marianinha-de-cabeça-amarela), Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus (arara-azul-grande), Pavo cristatus (pavão), Urubitinga urubitinga (gavião-preto) e Buteo melanoleucus (águia-chilena). Répteis das espécies Caiman crocodilus (jacaretinga), Chelonoidis carbonaria (jabuti) e Paleosuchus palpebrosus (jacaré-anão) foram soropositivos para T. gondii, embora o significado da presença desses anticorpos anti-T. gondii precise ser mais bem estudado nesse grupo de animais. Conclui-se que é alta a frequência de anticorpos encontrados nos animais do zoológico estudado e que medidas profiláticas que visem diminuir a contaminação ambiental por oocistos são necessárias.(AU)