Molecular detection and phylogenetic analysis of Borrelia Spp. In blood samples of cats and dogs by the nested-PCR method in West Azerbaijan Province, Iran.

The objective of this study was to investigate the presence and genetic attributes of Borrelia spp. in cats and dogs from the West Azerbaijan Province, located in the northwest of Iran. A total of 250 blood samples from cats and 300 blood samples from dogs were collected, and information regarding their age, sex, breed, ownership status, sampling time and region was recorded. The identification of positive samples was accomplished through nested-PCR and sequencing, with subsequent analysis of the gene sequences conducted using BioEdit software. The gene sequences for Borrelia spp. in this study showed 100% similarity to reference sequences in the GenBank® database. Phylogenetic trees were built using MEGA11. The outcomes indicated that among 250 blood samples from cats, 48 (19.2%) tested positive for Borrelia spp. gene, with a CI from 14.8 to 24.53% for cats. Similarly, out of 300 blood samples from dogs, 45 (15%) tested positive for the Borrelia spp. gene, with a CI from 11.4 to 19.48% for dogs.

First molecular detection of Borrelia sp. in tapirs (Tapirus terrestris).

Borrelia theileri is a tick-borne spirochete causative agent of fever, apathy and reduced food consumption in cattle. Molecular diagnosis has expanded the understanding of Borrelia theileri with new hosts and geographical locations being described. The present study aimed to describe the first molecular detection of B. theileri in wild tapirs (Tapirus terrestris) from South America. Blood DNA samples obtained from 99 tapirs sampled in Pantanal (n = 61) and Cerrado (n = 38) biomes were screened using a qPCR assay based on the 16 S rRNA gene of Borrelia sp. Positive samples in the qPCR assay were subjected to PCR assays to allow characterization of fragments from 16 S rRNA and flaB genes. Two (2/99; 2.0%) animals from Pantanal biome were positive in the qPCR and one sample presented bands of expected size for the flaB protocol. Amplicons from this sample were successfully cloned and sequenced. In the phylogenetic analysis, Borrelia sp. from T. terrestris grouped together with B. theileri sequences previously detected in Rhipicephalus microplus ticks and cattle from Minas Gerais State in Brazil, Rhipicephalus geigyi from Mali, and R. microplus and Haemaphysalis sulcata from Pakistan. This finding contributes to our knowledge regarding susceptible hosts species for B. theileri. More studies are necessary to understand the potential effects of B. theileri on tapir's health.

Lyme disease and Whipple's disease: a comprehensive review for the rheumatologist.

Despite their rarity, Lyme disease and Whipple's disease are of significant importance in rheumatology, as both can manifest as chronic arthritis, presenting challenges in the differential diagnosis of inflammatory arthropathies. In Lyme disease, arthritis typically emerges as a late manifestation, usually occurring six months after the onset of erythema migrans. The predominant presentation involves mono- or oligoarthritis of large joints, with a chronic or remitting-recurrent course. Even with appropriate antimicrobial treatment, arthritis may persist due to inadequate immunological control triggered by the disease. In contrast, Whipple's disease may present with a migratory and intermittent seronegative poly- or oligoarthritis of large joints, preceding classic gastrointestinal symptoms by several years. Both disorders, particularly Whipple's disease, can be misdiagnosed as more common autoimmune rheumatic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and spondyloarthritis. Epidemiology is crucial in suspecting and diagnosing Lyme disease, as the condition is transmitted by ticks prevalent in specific areas of the United States, Europe, and Asia. On the contrary, the causative agent of Whipple's disease is widespread in the environment, yet invasive disease is rare and likely dependent on host genetic factors. In addition to erythema migrans in Lyme disease and gastrointestinal manifestations in Whipple's disease, neurological and cardiac involvement can further complicate the course of both. This article offers a comprehensive review of the epidemiological, pathophysiological, clinical, and therapeutic aspects of both diseases.

Is there Lyme borreliosis in French Guiana? Descriptive study among patients referred for a suspected Lyme borreliosis in an Amazonian hospital between 2010 and 2022.

Lyme borreliosis (LB) existence in South America is debated, especially in the Amazon region. The infection with Lyme borreliae has never been reported in French Guiana where Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato is not found in ticks. We describe the final diagnosis and presumed place of acquisition in patients consulting for suspicion of LB. We retrospectively collected data from all consecutive patients consulting for a suspicion of LB between 2010 and 2021 at Cayenne Hospital, French Guiana. Patients were classified by an adjudication committee as confirmed LB if they met the criteria of the French consensus, as possible LB if they had compatible symptoms and a good outcome after appropriate treatment, or excluded when a differential diagnosis was found. The place of acquisition was discussed in case of possible or confirmed case. Twenty-six patients were included. Rheumatologic symptoms were the most reported (88 %) followed by neurological symptoms (61 %). Twenty-four (92 %) of these patients were born out of French Guiana. Diagnosis of LB was considered as confirmed in 2 patients (8 %), for whom the place of acquisition was likely mainland France, and as possible in 3 patients (11 %) with early localized LB presumably acquired in French Guiana. Functional somatic disorders were diagnosed in 13 (50 %) patients whereas 9 (35 %) were found with another disease. This study did not confirm the acquisition of LB in French Guiana. However, three possible autochthonous cases encourage clinicians working in the Amazon area to stay aware of LB.

Facial Paralysis Due to Brazilian Lyme Disease: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Lyme disease (LD) is a highly prevalent infection in the northern hemisphere, with an estimated incidence of 450,000 new annual cases in the United States and 65,000 new annual cases in Europe. Transmitted by the bite of a tick contaminated with a spirochete, the disease has three distinct stages. In the second phase of the disease, there may be neurological impairment, and the involvement of cranial nerve pairs occurs in this phase. Neuropathy of the seventh cranial nerve can occur in around 10% of adults with neurological involvement by Borrelia; in children, this incidence can reach 50%. A 32-year-old female patient presented with an abrupt facial paralysis that evolved into a difficult-to-resolve condition. With the appearance of probable contralateral involvement, LD was diagnosed. After the established treatment, the patient presented a good evolution of the symptoms.

Borrelia theileri in Bovine in the northern and southeastern regions of Brazil.

The present study aimed to describe the occurrence of Borrelia spp. in cattle in the states of Minas Gerais and Pará in southeastern and northern Brazil, respectively. Bovine whole blood samples were examined by blood smear and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect the flagellin B (flaB) gene of Borrelia spp. Frequencies of positive animals for Borrelia spp. were 1.52% (2/132) in the municipality of Unaí, Minas Gerais, and 14.2% (2/7) in the municipality of Marabá, Pará. Subsequent genetic sequencing confirmed that the detected spirochetes close to the species B. theileri. In both locations, the animals positive for B. theileri were also highly infested by Rhipicephalus microplus ticks. Despite the low frequency of Borrelia spp., the occurrence of this spirochete indicates that further studies are needed to determine the consequences in cattle herds.

First molecular detection of Borrelia theileri subclinical infection in a cow from Brazil.

Borrelia theileri is a relapsing fever group Borrelia that is transmitted to cattle by ticks of the genus Rhipicephalus. In this study, we describe the first molecular detection of B. theileri subclinical infection in a cow in Brazil. During the examination of stained blood smears of 10 cows from a farm with a recent history of fatal Trypanosoma vivax trypanosomiasis, spirochete-like structures were incidentally detected in one of the cows. The animal presented good body score, normal hematocrit and normal-colored ocular mucosa. Temperature, heart rate and respiratory rate were all normal. The animal was infested by ticks, which were morphologically identified as Rhipicephalus microplus. The diagnosis was confirmed by testing DNA extracted from a blood sample using a PCR targeting a ≈ 650 bp fragment of the flagellin B (flaB) gene of Borrelia spp. The partial flaB sequence obtained showed 99.83% similarity with B. theileri. Phylogenetically, the flaB partial sequence generated herein clustered with other B. theileri sequences, being separated from B. lonestari. This is the first molecular detection of B. theileri subclinical infection in a cow in Brazil. The possible implications of this finding are discussed.

Is Borrelia burgdorferi Sensu Stricto in South America? First Molecular Evidence of Its Presence in Colombia.

The genus Borrelia encompasses spirochetal species that are part of three well-defined groups. Two of these groups contain pathogens that affect humans: the group causing Lyme disease (LDG) and the relapsing fever group (RFG). Lyme disease is caused by Borrelia burgdorferi s.l., which is distributed in the Northern Hemisphere, and relapsing fevers are caused by Borrelia spp., which are found in temperate and tropical countries and are an emerging but neglected pathogens. In some departments of Colombia, there are records of the presence of Borrelia sp. in humans and bats. However, little is known about the impact and circulation of Borrelia spp. in the country, especially in wildlife, which can act as a reservoir and/or amplifying host. In this context, the objective of our research was to detect and identify the Borrelia species present in wild mammals in the departments of Caldas and Risaralda in Colombia. For morphological detection, blood smears and organ imprints were performed, and molecular identification was carried out through a nested PCR directed on the flagellin B (flaB) gene. A total of 105 mammals belonging to three orders (Chiroptera, Didelphimorphia and Rodentia) were analyzed, of which 15.24% (n = 16) were positive for Borrelia. Molecularly, the presence of Borrelia burgdorferi s.s. in lung tissues of Thomasomys aureus and blood of Mus musculus (Rodentia) was detected, with 99.64 and 100% identity, respectively. Borrelia sp. genospecies from a clade branch of a bat-associated LDG sister group were identified in seven individuals of bat species, such as Artibeus lituratus, Carollia brevicauda, Sturnira erythromos, and Glossophaga soricina. Furthermore, two Borrelia genospecies from the RFG in seven individuals of bats (A. lituratus, Artibeus jamaicensis, Platyrrhinus helleri, Mesophylla macconnelli, Rhynchonycteris naso) and rodents (Coendou rufescens, Microryzomys altissimus) were documented. Additionally, the presence of a spirochete was detected by microscopy in the liver of a Sturnira erythromos bat specimen. These results contain the first molecular evidence of the presence of B. burgdorferi s.s. in South America, which merits the need for comprehensive studies involving arthropods and vertebrates (including humans) in other departments of Colombia, as well as neighboring countries, to understand the current status of the circulation of Borrelia spp. in South America.

Recent Advances in the Immunologic Method Applied to Tick-Borne Diseases in Brazil.

Zoonotic-origin infectious diseases are one of the major concerns of human and veterinary health systems. Ticks, as vectors of several zoonotic diseases, are ranked second only to mosquitoes as vectors. Many ticks' transmitted infections are still endemic in the Americas, Europe, and Africa and represent approximately 17% of their infectious diseases population. Although our scientific capacity to identify and diagnose diseases is increasing, it remains a challenge in the case of tick-borne conditions. For example, in 2017, 160 cases of the Brazilian Spotted Fever (BSF, a tick-borne illness) were confirmed, alarming the notifiable diseases information system. Conversely, Brazilian borreliosis and ehrlichiosis do not require notification. Still, an increasing number of cases in humans and dogs have been reported in southeast and northeastern Brazil. Immunological methods applied to human and dog tick-borne diseases (TBD) show low sensitivity and specificity, cross-reactions, and false IgM positivity. Thus, the diagnosis and management of TBD are hampered by the personal tools and indirect markers used. Therefore, specific and rapid methods urgently need to be developed to diagnose the various types of tick-borne bacterial diseases. This review presents a brief historical perspective on the evolution of serological assays and recent advances in diagnostic tests for TBD (ehrlichiosis, BSF, and borreliosis) in humans and dogs, mainly applied in Brazil. Additionally, this review covers the emerging technologies available in diagnosing TBD, including biosensors, and discusses their potential for future use as gold standards in diagnosing these diseases.

The Current State of Knowledge on Baggio-Yoshinari Syndrome (Brazilian Lyme Disease-like Illness): Chronological Presentation of Historical and Scientific Events Observed over the Last 30 Years.

Baggio-Yoshinari Syndrome (BYS) is an emerging Brazilian tick-borne infectious disease that clinically mimics Lyme Disease (LD) present in the Northern Hemisphere. LD is caused by spirochetes belonging to the Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex and transmitted by Ixodid ticks of complex Ixodes rticinus. On the contrary, BYS is transmitted by hard Ixodid ticks of the genera Amblyomma, Rhipicephalus and Dermacentor. In 1992, the first cases of BYS were described in patients that developed EM rash, flu-like symptoms and arthritis after tick bite episodes. Since these findings, research in BYS has been developing for more than 30 years and shows that its epidemiological, clinical and laboratorial features are different from LD. Borrelia burgdorferi was never isolated in Brazil. In addition, specific serologic tests have shown little positivity. Furthermore, peripheral blood analysis of patients using electron microscopy exhibited structures resembling spirochete-like microorganisms or the latent forms of spirochetes (L form or cell wall deficient bacteria). For these reasons, Brazilian zoonosis was defined as an exotic and emerging Brazilian infectious disease, transmitted by ticks not belonging to the Ixodes ricinus complex, caused by latent spirochetes belonging to the B. burgdorferi sensu lato complex with atypical morphology. The Brazilian ecosystem, combined with its ticks and reservoir biodiversity, possibly contributed to the origin of this new zoonosis, which emerged as a result of the passage of B. burgdorferi through exotic vectors and reservoirs.

Innate and Th1/Th17 adaptive immunity in acute and convalescent Brazilian borreliosis disease.

INTRODUCTION: Brazilian borreliosis (BB) disease is an infectious disease transmitted by ticks that mimics Lyme disease (LD) from the Northern Hemisphere. The BB clinical picture is characterized by a pathognomonic skin lesion (migratory erythema) and joint, neurological, cardiac and psychiatric symptoms. Innate and Th1/Th17 adaptive immunity seem to play an important role in the pathogenesis of Lyme disease. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to characterize the role of innate and Th1/Th17 adaptive immunity in BB patients with acute (<3 months) and convalescent (>3 months) disease. METHODS: Fifty BB patients (28 with acute and 22 with convalescent disease) without treatment and 30 healthy subjects were evaluated. Levels of 20 cytokines or chemokines associated with innate and Th1/Th17 adaptive immunity were analyzed using Luminex (Millipore Corp., Billerica, MA). RESULTS: Overall, BB patients had increased levels of IL-8 (6.29 vs 2.12 p = 0.002) and MIP-1α/CCL3 (5.20 vs 2.06, p = 0.030), associated with innate immunity, and MIP3B/CCL19 (Th1; 297.86 vs 212.41, p = 0.031) and IL-17A (Th17; 3.11 vs 2.20, p = 0.037), associated with adaptive immunity, compared with the levels of healthy controls. When comparing acute BB vs. convalescent BB subjects vs. healthy controls, IL-1ß, IL-8 and MIP-1α/CCL3 (innate mediators) levels were highest in patients in the acute phase of disease (p < 0.05). TNF-α was associated with disseminated symptoms and with humoral reactivity against Borrelia burgdorferi. IL-10 was significantly correlated with IL-6 (r = 0.59, p = 0.003), IL-8 (r = 0.51, p < 0.001), MIP-1α/CCL3 (r = 0.42, p < 0.001) and MIP-3ß/CCL19 (r = 0.40, p = 0.002) in all BB patients. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study describing that innate and Th1/Th17 adaptive immunity play a crucial role in BB disease. Furthermore, innate mediators are particularly important in acute BB disease, and TNF-α is associated with evolution of BB symptoms.

Borrelia in neotropical bats: Detection of two new phylogenetic lineages.

The genus Borrelia encompasses 50 spirochetal species, several of which are pathogenic and have been detected in a wide range of mammals, especially rodents and cervids. Although the order Chiroptera is the second most diverse mammalian order, and borreliosis represents a human and veterinary health problem in endemic countries, few studies have previously reported infections of Borrelia in these flying mammals. For this reason, the aim of the present study was to detect the presence of, and to analyze the diversity of Borrelia species in several bat species from Mexico. A total of 69 bats belonging to 11 species were collected and molecular detection of Borrelia was performed by amplifying three genes using specific primers. Only five individuals of four bat species (Saccopteryxbilineata, Choeroniscus godmani, Sturnira parvidens and Lasiurus cinereus) tested positive for Borrelia DNA. We now show the first Borrelia record in Mexican bats from two different ecosystems, where previously several potential vector species of the genus Ixodes and Ornithodoros had been reported. The Borrelia sequences obtained from the bats revealed two new putative lineages, one from the relapsing fever group and the second one belonging to the Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. complex, both of which are related to zoonotic species. These results highlight the importance of bats as potential hosts of Borrelia, and the imperative need of active surveillance in flying mammals in order to understand their potential role in the life cycle of this bacteria genus.

Experimental infection by Borrelia anserina strain PL in Gallus gallus / Infecção experimental de Borrelia anserina cepa PL em Gallus gallus

Avian borreliosis is a tick-borne acute septicemic disease that affects a variety of avian species and is caused by the bacterium Borrelia anserina. The present study aimed to establish the infection dynamics of B. anserina in experimentally infected Gallus gallus to determine its impact on the health and weight gain of the animals. Forty G. gallus were divided into four groups. Group 1 (G1) included 10 animals inoculated intramuscularly (IM) with 250µL of blood serum containing 3.7x106 spirochetes per milliliter. Group 2 (G2) included 10 animals inoculated IM with 250µL of saline 0.9%. Group 3 (G3) included 10 animals infested with four Argas miniatus nymphs (3rd instar) infected with B. anserina strain PL. Group 4 (G4) included 10 animals infested with four A. miniatus nymphs (3rd instar) free of infection by B. anserina. The number of spirochetes in the blood was directly proportional to the appearance of clinical signs and symptoms. This is the first study showing the experimental clinical evolution of the B. anserina PL strain in G. gallus. Additionally, the first assessments of spirochetaemia are presented, based on the direct count of bacteria in the serum by a Neubauer chamber, during the infection.(AU)

Borreliose aviária é uma doença septicêmica aguda transmitida por carrapatos que afeta uma variedade de espécies aviárias e é causada pela bactéria Borrelia anserina. O presente estudo teve como objetivo estabelecer a dinâmica da infecção de B. anserina em Gallus gallus experimentalmente infectados e determinar seu impacto na saúde e no ganho de peso dos animais. Quarenta G. gallus foram divididos em quatro grupos. O Grupo 1 (G1) incluiu 10 animais inoculados por via intramuscular (IM) com 250µL de soro sanguíneo contendo 3,7x106 espiroquetas por mL; Grupo 2 (G2) incluiu 10 animais inoculados IM com 250µL de soro fisiológico 0,9%; Grupo 3 (G3) incluiu 10 animais infestados com quatro ninfas de Argas miniatus (3º instar) infectadas com B. anserina cepa PL. O Grupo 4 (G4) incluiu 10 animais infestados com quatro ninfas de A. miniatus (3º instar) livres de infecção por B. anserina. O número de espiroquetas no sangue foi diretamente proporcional ao aparecimento de sinais e sintomas clínicos. Este é o primeiro estudo que mostra a evolução clínica experimental da cepa B. anserina PL em G. gallus. Além disso, são apresentadas as primeiras avaliações da espiroquetemia, baseadas na contagem direta da bactéria no soro por uma câmara de Neubauer, durante a infecção.(AU)

Innate and Th1/Th17 adaptive immunity in acute and convalescent Brazilian borreliosis disease

ABSTRACT Introduction: Brazilian borreliosis (BB) disease is an infectious disease transmitted by ticks that mimics Lyme disease (LD) from the Northern Hemisphere. The BB clinical picture is characterized by a pathognomonic skin lesion (migratory erythema) and joint, neurological, cardiac and psychiatric symptoms. Innate and Th1/Th17 adaptive immunity seem to play an important role in the pathogenesis of Lyme disease. Objective: The aim of this study was to characterize the role of innate and Th1/Th17 adaptive immunity in BB patients with acute (<3 months) and convalescent (>3 months) disease. Methods: Fifty BB patients (28 with acute and 22 with convalescent disease) without treatment and 30 healthy subjects were evaluated. Levels of 20 cytokines or chemokines associated with innate and Th1/Th17 adaptive immunity were analyzed using Luminex (Millipore Corp., Billerica, MA). Results: Overall, BB patients had increased levels of IL-8 (6.29 vs 2.12 p = 0.002) and MIP-1α/CCL3 (5.20 vs 2.06, p = 0.030), associated with innate immunity, and MIP3B/CCL19 (Th1; 297.86 vs 212.41, p = 0.031) and IL-17A (Th17; 3.11 vs 2.20, p = 0.037), associated with adaptive immunity, compared with the levels of healthy controls. When comparing acute BB vs. convalescent BB subjects vs. healthy controls, IL-1β, IL-8 and MIP-1α/CCL3 (innate mediators) levels were highest in patients in the acute phase of disease (p < 0.05). TNF-α was associated with disseminated symptoms and with humoral reactivity against Borrelia burgdorferi. IL-10 was significantly correlated with IL-6 (r = 0.59, p = 0.003), IL-8 (r = 0.51, p < 0.001), MIP-1α/CCL3 (r = 0.42, p < 0.001) and MIP-3β/CCL19 (r = 0.40, p = 0.002) in all BB patients. Conclusions: This is the first study describing that innate and Th1/Th17 adaptive immunity play a crucial role in BB disease. Furthermore, innate mediators are particularly important in acute BB disease, and TNF-α is associated with evolution of BB symptoms.

Innate and Th1/Th17 adaptive immunity in acute and convalescent Brazilian borreliosis disease

Introduction: Brazilian borreliosis (BB) disease is an infectious disease transmitted by ticks that mimics Lyme disease (LD) from the Northern Hemisphere. The BB clinical picture is characterized by a pathognomonic skin lesion (migratory erythema) and joint, neurological, cardiac and psychiatric symptoms. Innate and Th1/Th17 adaptive immunity seem to play an important role in the pathogenesis of Lyme disease. Objective: The aim of this study was to characterize the role of innate and Th1/Th17 adaptive immunity in BB patients with acute (<3 months) and convalescent (>3 months) disease. Methods: Fifty BB patients (28 with acute and 22 with convalescent disease) without treatment and 30 healthy subjects were evaluated. Levels of 20 cytokines or chemokines associated with innate and Th1/Th17 adaptive immunity were analyzed using Luminex (Millipore Corp., Billerica, MA). Results: Overall, BB patients had increased levels of IL-8 (6.29 vs 2.12 p = 0.002) and MIP-1α/CCL3 (5.20 vs 2.06, p = 0.030), associated with innate immunity, and MIP3B/CCL19 (Th1; 297.86 vs 212.41, p = 0.031) and IL-17A (Th17; 3.11 vs 2.20, p = 0.037), associated with adaptive immunity, compared with the levels of healthy controls. When comparing acute BB vs. convalescent BB subjects vs. healthy controls, IL-1β, IL-8 and MIP-1α/CCL3 (innate mediators) levels were highest in patients in the acute phase of disease (p < 0.05). TNF-α was associated with disseminated symptoms and with humoral reactivity against Borrelia burgdorferi. IL-10 was significantly correlated with IL-6 (r = 0.59, p = 0.003), IL-8 (r = 0.51, p < 0.001), MIP-1α/CCL3 (r = 0.42, p < 0.001) and MIP-3β/CCL19 (r = 0.40, p = 0.002) in all BB patients. Conclusions: This is the first study describing that innate and Th1/Th17 adaptive immunity play a crucial role in BB disease. Furthermore, innate mediators are particularly important in acute BB disease, and TNF-α is associated with evolution of BB symptoms.

Panuveítis asociada a la enfermedad de Lyme en un paciente colombiano. Reporte de caso / Panuveitis due to Lyme disease in a Colombian patient: Case report

RESUMEN La enfermedad de Lyme es una zoonosis transmitida por la picadura de garrapatas del género Ixodes sp. Ha sido descrita con más frecuencia en zonas endémicas de países meridionales. Sus manifestaciones clínicas son muy variables y se presentan de acuerdo con el estadio clínico de la enfermedad, teniendo así el compromiso ocular un espectro clínico muy variado que incluye manifestaciones desde la superficie ocular hasta la inflamación del segmento posterior. Se presenta el caso de un paciente de 72 años con un viaje reciente a los Estados Unidos (EE. UU.), atendido en la consulta particular por un oftalmólogo supraespecialista en uveítis de la ciudad de Medellín. El paciente hacía un mes refería una disminución de la agudeza visual (AV) en su ojo izquierdo y al examen oftalmológico presentó signos clínicos de panuveítis no granulomatosa asociada a un edema macular y vasculitis retinal. Se confirmó la enfermedad de Lyme en fase tardía por la presencia de anticuerpos en sangre por Western blot. Se realizó tratamiento exitoso con antibióticos (doxiciclina), con recuperación de la AV y la mejoría completa de los signos inflamatorios intraoculares.

SUMMARY Lyme Disease is a zoonosis transmitted by arthropods that has been described with more frequency in endemic zones of meridional countries. Its clinical manifestations vary according to the clinical stage of the disease. The eye can be affected in many forms including the involvement of the ocular surface and the posterior segment, with more severe inflammation of the retina and the choroid. We present a case of a 72-year male with a recent trip to EEUU who complained of decreasing vision in his left eye had clinical signs of non-granulomatous panuveitis with macular edema and retinal vasculitis. Lyme disease was confirmed with positive antibodies in blood and Western blot test, and the patient was successfully treated using oral Doxycycline. His visual acuity improved and had a resolution of the intraocular inflammation after the specific treatment.

First serological detection of Borrelia spp. in dogs in western Cuba / Primeira detecção sorológica de Borrelia spp. em cães na região oeste de Cuba

Abstract This study aimed to verify the presence of IgG antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l) in domestic dogs in western Cuba. Serum samples were analyzed by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), using crude antigens of a B. burgdorferi strain of North American origin. To verify the presence of Borrelia spp., deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) extracted from individual blood samples was analyzed by nested-PCR, with markers targeted for amplification of portions of the flagellin B gene (flaB) present in Borrelia spirochetes. Ticks were also collected through inspection of the animals. Sera from 93 of 176 (52.84%) dogs were reactive to the indirect ELISA. Geographic prevalence varied from 54.35% (25/46) in Boyeros, 44.44% (20/45) in Cotorro, 66.67% (22/33) in Habana del Este, and 50% (26/52) in San José de las Lajas. There was no statistical difference between these tested variables. No blood samples analyzed were positive for the Borrelia flaB gene.

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo confirmar a presença de anticorpos IgG contra Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l) em cães na região oeste de Cuba. As amostras de soro foram analisadas por ensaio de imunoabsorção enzimática (ELISA) indireto, usando-se antígenos brutos de uma cepa de B. burgdorferi de origem norte-americana. Para confirmar a presença de Borrelia spp., o ácido desoxirribonucleico (DNA), extraído de amostras individuais de sangue, foi analisado por PCR, utilizando-se marcadores direcionados para a amplificação de porções do gene da flagelina B (flaB) presente nas espiroquetas de Borrelia. Os carrapatos também foram coletados através da inspeção dos animais. Os soros de 93 de 176 (52,84%) cães foram reativos ao ELISA indireto. A prevalência geográfica variou de 54,35% (25/46) em Boyeros, 44,44% (20/45) em Cotorro, 66,67% (22/33) em Habana del Este e 50% (26/52) em San José de las Lajas. Não houve diferença estatística entre essas variáveis testadas. Nenhuma amostra de sangue analisada foi positiva para o gene Borrelia flaB.

First serological detection of Borrelia spp. in dogs in western Cuba / Primeira detecção sorológica de Borrelia spp. em cães na região oeste de Cuba

This study aimed to verify the presence of IgG antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l) in domestic dogs in western Cuba. Serum samples were analyzed by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), using crude antigens of a B. burgdorferi strain of North American origin. To verify the presence of Borrelia spp., deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) extracted from individual blood samples was analyzed by nested-PCR, with markers targeted for amplification of portions of the flagellin B gene (flaB) present in Borrelia spirochetes. Ticks were also collected through inspection of the animals. Sera from 93 of 176 (52.84%) dogs were reactive to the indirect ELISA. Geographic prevalence varied from 54.35% (25/46) in Boyeros, 44.44% (20/45) in Cotorro, 66.67% (22/33) in Habana del Este, and 50% (26/52) in San José de las Lajas. There was no statistical difference between these tested variables. No blood samples analyzed were positive for the Borrelia flaB gene.(AU)

Este estudo teve como objetivo confirmar a presença de anticorpos IgG contra Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l) em cães na região oeste de Cuba. As amostras de soro foram analisadas por ensaio de imunoabsorção enzimática (ELISA) indireto, usando-se antígenos brutos de uma cepa de B. burgdorferi de origem norte-americana. Para confirmar a presença de Borrelia spp., o ácido desoxirribonucleico (DNA), extraído de amostras individuais de sangue, foi analisado por PCR, utilizando-se marcadores direcionados para a amplificação de porções do gene da flagelina B (flaB) presente nas espiroquetas de Borrelia. Os carrapatos também foram coletados através da inspeção dos animais. Os soros de 93 de 176 (52,84%) cães foram reativos ao ELISA indireto. A prevalência geográfica variou de 54,35% (25/46) em Boyeros, 44,44% (20/45) em Cotorro, 66,67% (22/33) em Habana del Este e 50% (26/52) em San José de las Lajas. Não houve diferença estatística entre essas variáveis testadas. Nenhuma amostra de sangue analisada foi positiva para o gene Borrelia flaB.(AU)

Negative results for Borrelia burdgorferi in cows and ticks from a border region between Brazil and Paraguay: a case report / Resultados negativos para Borrelia burgdorferi em vacas e carrapatos de região fronteiriça entre Brasil e Paraguai: relato de Caso

Lyme borreliosis is an infectious disease caused by bacteria of the genus Borrelia. In ruminants, most infections are asymptomatic, but the animals can present myalgia, lameness, laminitis, arthritis, synovitis, neurological symptoms, and also decreased production and abortion. The objective was to investigate Borrelia burgdorferi DNA in cows and cattle ticks on a small dairy farm in a border region. Blood samples and ticks were collected from Holstein cows with a history of decreased milk production and abortions. Borrelia burgdorferi DNA was extracted from blood samples using a commercial extraction kit, and from ticks using an alkaline hydrolysis solution for subsequent nested-PCR. Serum and tick samples did not present Borrelia burgdorferi DNA, and 100% of the ticks were identified as Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. Although this study shows negative results it contributes to understanding the epidemiology of this etiological agent in Paraná and in Brazil, since there are few studies on bovine species. The negative results of this work demonstrate that the animals and ticks researched were not exposed to Borrelia burgdorferi, however, as it isa property located in a border region, the sanitary monitoring of the herd must be performed constantly since this is a region. vulnerable to the entry of potential threats to human, animal and environmental health from vectors and pathogenic microorganisms, given the large extension of the land border with the neighboring country and which also has different health status.

A borreliose de Lyme é uma doença infecciosa causada por bactérias do gênero Borrelia. Nos ruminantes, a infecção é assintomática, mas os animais podem apresentar mialgia, claudicação, laminite, artrite, sinovite, sintomas neurológicos e também diminuição da produção e do aborto. O objetivo foi investigar o DNA de Borrelia burgdorferi em vacas e carrapatos de uma pequena propriedade rural de gado leiteiro em uma região de fronteira. Amostras de sangue e carrapatos foram coletados de vacas da raça Holandesa com histórico de diminuição da produção de leite e abortos. O DNA de Borrelia burgdorferi foi extraído de amostras de sangue usando um kit de extração comercial e de carrapatos usando uma solução de hidrólise alcalina para subsequente nested-PCR. Amostras de soro e carrapato não apresentaram DNA de Borrelia burgdorferi, e 100% dos carrapatos foram identificados como Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. Embora este estudo apresente resultados negativos o mesmo contribui para o entendimento da epidemiologia desse agente etiológico no Paraná e no Brasil, uma vez que existem poucos estudos sobre espécies bovinas. Os resultados negativos deste trabalho demonstram que os animais e carrapatos pesquisados não foram expostos a Borrelia burgdorferi, no entanto, por se tratar de uma propriedade localizada em uma região de fronteira, o monitoramento sanitário do rebanho deve ser realizado constantemente, pois é uma região vulnerável à entrada de ameaças potenciais à saúde humana, animal e ambiental por vetores e microrganismos patogênicos, dada a grande extensão da fronteira terrestre com o país vizinho e que também apresenta diferentes condições de saúde.

Negative results for Borrelia burdgorferi in cows and ticks from a border region between Brazil and Paraguay: a case report / Resultados negativos para Borrelia burgdorferi em vacas e carrapatos de região fronteiriça entre Brasil e Paraguai: relato de Caso

Lyme borreliosis is an infectious disease caused by bacteria of the genus Borrelia. In ruminants, most infections are asymptomatic, but the animals can present myalgia, lameness, laminitis, arthritis, synovitis, neurological symptoms, and also decreased production and abortion. The objective was to investigate Borrelia burgdorferi DNA in cows and cattle ticks on a small dairy farm in a border region. Blood samples and ticks were collected from Holstein cows with a history of decreased milk production and abortions. Borrelia burgdorferi DNA was extracted from blood samples using a commercial extraction kit, and from ticks using an alkaline hydrolysis solution for subsequent nested-PCR. Serum and tick samples did not present Borrelia burgdorferi DNA, and 100% of the ticks were identified as Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. Although this study shows negative results it contributes to understanding the epidemiology of this etiological agent in Paraná and in Brazil, since there are few studies on bovine species. The negative results of this work demonstrate that the animals and ticks researched were not exposed to Borrelia burgdorferi, however, as it isa property located in a border region, the sanitary monitoring of the herd must be performed constantly since this is a region. vulnerable to the entry of potential threats to human, animal and environmental health from vectors and pathogenic microorganisms, given the large extension of the land border with the neighboring country and which also has different health status.(AU)

A borreliose de Lyme é uma doença infecciosa causada por bactérias do gênero Borrelia. Nos ruminantes, a infecção é assintomática, mas os animais podem apresentar mialgia, claudicação, laminite, artrite, sinovite, sintomas neurológicos e também diminuição da produção e do aborto. O objetivo foi investigar o DNA de Borrelia burgdorferi em vacas e carrapatos de uma pequena propriedade rural de gado leiteiro em uma região de fronteira. Amostras de sangue e carrapatos foram coletados de vacas da raça Holandesa com histórico de diminuição da produção de leite e abortos. O DNA de Borrelia burgdorferi foi extraído de amostras de sangue usando um kit de extração comercial e de carrapatos usando uma solução de hidrólise alcalina para subsequente nested-PCR. Amostras de soro e carrapato não apresentaram DNA de Borrelia burgdorferi, e 100% dos carrapatos foram identificados como Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. Embora este estudo apresente resultados negativos o mesmo contribui para o entendimento da epidemiologia desse agente etiológico no Paraná e no Brasil, uma vez que existem poucos estudos sobre espécies bovinas. Os resultados negativos deste trabalho demonstram que os animais e carrapatos pesquisados não foram expostos a Borrelia burgdorferi, no entanto, por se tratar de uma propriedade localizada em uma região de fronteira, o monitoramento sanitário do rebanho deve ser realizado constantemente, pois é uma região vulnerável à entrada de ameaças potenciais à saúde humana, animal e ambiental por vetores e microrganismos patogênicos, dada a grande extensão da fronteira terrestre com o país vizinho e que também apresenta diferentes condições de saúde.(AU)