PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Varaschin M.S., Mesquita L.P., Guimarães A.M., Hirsch C., Abreu C.C., Rocha C.M.B.M., Wouters F. & Moreira M.C. 2011. [Factors associated to seroprevalence of Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii in caprine herds in southern Minas Gerais state, Brazil.] Fatores associados a soroprevalência de Neospora caninum e Toxoplasma gondii em rebanhos caprinos na região sul de Minas Gerais. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 31(1):53-58. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Campus Universitário s/n, Cx. Postal 3037, Lavras, MG 37200-000, Brazil. E-mail: msvaraschin@ufla.br This study determines the seroprevalences of Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii in caprine herds in southern Minas Gerais state and investigates their association with the reproductive performance of the herds analyzed since no data concerning neosporosis in goats in this state are available. Serum samples from 401 goats from 11 farms were subjected to indirect immunofluorescence reaction for the detection of N. caninum and T. gondii. The mean prevalence rates of animals that tested positive were 10.7% and 21.4%, respectively. Significant differences between different age groups were observed. The highest frequencies of positive cases for both parasites were observed in goats over three years of age; in this group, the probability of seropositivity for N. caninum and T. gondii was 2.6 and 4.8 times higher, respectively, when compared to animals up to one year of age. No positive correlation was found between the mean prevalence rate of N. caninum (p-0,553) and T. gondii (p=0.098) and the occurrence of reproductive problems in the herds using T-test. However, farms with a history of reproductive problems exhibited an average of 18.64% animals reactive to N. caninum, compared to 13.97% from farms where those problems were not reported. When reproductive problems were separated in category, the relationship between occurrence of abortion and seroprevalence of N. caninum and T. gondii was significant (p<0.05) using Fisher’s exact test and chi-square test. No difference was seen (p>0.05) between the mean prevalence rate of T. gondii of herds to which cats had access as compared to herds that had no contact with cats using a T-test. However, the mean prevalence rate in farms where cats had access to the herd was 31.01% as compared to 17.34% in farms where there were no cats. Access of dogs was observed in 100% of the farms. The results obtained in this study demonstrate that N. caninum and T. gondii infect goats in southern Minas Gerais and that these parasites can be associated with the occurrence of abortion in this animal species.

• Neospora caninum Toxoplasma gondii

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Varaschin M.S., Mesquita L.P., Guimarães A.M., Hirsch C., Abreu C.C., Rocha C.M.B.M., Wouters F. & Moreira M.C. 2011. [Factors associated to seroprevalence of Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii in caprine herds in southern Minas Gerais state, Brazil.] Fatores associados a soroprevalência de Neospora caninum e Toxoplasma gondii em rebanhos caprinos na região sul de Minas Gerais. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 31(1):53-58. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Campus Universitário s/n, Cx. Postal 3037, Lavras, MG 37200-000, Brazil. E-mail: msvaraschin@ufla.br Este estudo estabelece a soroprevalência de Neospora caninum e Toxoplasma gondii em rebanhos caprinos no Sul de Minas Gerais e verifica a sua associação com o desempenho reprodutivo dos rebanhos analisados, uma vez que não há dados sobre neosporose em caprinos neste Estado. Amostras de soro de 401 caprinos provenientes de 11 propriedades foram submetidas à reação de imunofluorescência indireta anti-N. caninum e T. gondii. A prevalência média de animais positivos foi de 10,7% e 21,4%, respectivamente. Houve diferença significativa entre as faixas etárias. Neste quesito os maiores índices de positividade, para ambos os parasitas, foram observados nos caprinos acima de três anos de idade. Estes apresentaram uma probabilidade 2,6 e 4,8 maior, em relação aos animais de até um ano de idade, para N. caninum e T. gondii, respectivamente. No teste T não houve associação positiva entre as médias de prevalência de N. caninum (p=0,553) e T. gondii (p=0,098) com a ocorrência de problema reprodutivo nos rebanhos. Porém, propriedades com histórico de problemas reprodutivos apresentaram uma média de reagentes para N. caninum de 18,64%, se comparadas a 13,97% de criatórios que não relataram essas alterações. Quando os problemas reprodutivos foram separados em categorias a relação entre a ocorrência de aborto e a soroprevalência de N. caninum e de T. gondii foi significativa (p<0,05) por meio dos testes Exato de Fisher e Qui-quadrado. Não houve diferença (p>0,05) entre as médias de prevalência de T. gondii e o acesso de gatos ao rebanho no teste T. Entretanto, a média de prevalência nas propriedades em que os gatos tinham acesso foi de 31,01%, se comparada a 17,34% em criatórios onde não existiam gatos. Foi constatado o acesso de cães em 100% das propriedades. Os resultados obtidos neste estudo demonstram que N. caninum e T. gondii infectam caprinos no Sul de Minas Gerais e que estes parasitas podem estar associados à ocorrência de abortos nessa espécie animal.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Meirelles A.E.W.B., Oliveira E.C., Rodrigues B.A., Costa G.R., Sonne L., Tesser E.S. & Driemeier D. 2010. [Prevalence of cutaneous neoplasms in dogs from the metropolitan area of Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil: 1,017 cases (2002-2007).] Prevalência de neoplasmas cutâneos em cães da Região Metropolitana de Porto Alegre, RS: 1.017 casos (2002-2007). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(11):968-973. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br The aim of this study was to perform a retrospective study of cutaneous neoplasms diagnosed in dogs. The evaluation was established by analyzing the diagnostic files at the Veterinary Pathology Sector, UFRGS, Brazil, over a 6-year period (2002 to 2007). During this period a total of 1869 (37.3%) skin samples were obtained from 5016 different tissue samples of dogs submitted for examination. Among the referred skin samples, 1002 were from dogs with the diagnosis of cutaneous neoplasia and 15 dogs exhibited more than one type of skin tumor, what amounted to a total of 1017 (20.3%) cutaneous tumor samples. Results confirmed 50.5% (514/1017), 45.1% (459/1017), and 3.9% (40/1017) of respectively mesenquimal, epithelial, and melanocytic origin. Mast cell tumor was the most frequent neoplasia, diagnosed in 228 cases (22.4%), and was followed by squamous cell carcinoma (7.5%), lipoma (7.3%), perianal gland adenoma (7.1%), and trichoblastoma (5.8%). Purebred dogs such as Cocker Spaniel, Boxer, Poodle and German Sheepdog were the most representative breeds affected by various neoplasms. The data obtained, compared to data from previous studies, emphasize the variables breed, age and sex related to some skin tumors, and reinforce the importance and prevalence of different types of skin tumors in dogs.

• Cutaneous neoplasm neoplasma cutâneo

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Meirelles A.E.W.B., Oliveira E.C., Rodrigues B.A., Costa G.R., Sonne L., Tesser E.S. & Driemeier D. 2010. [Prevalence of cutaneous neoplasms in dogs from the metropolitan area of Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil: 1,017 cases (2002-2007).] Prevalência de neoplasmas cutâneos em cães da Região Metropolitana de Porto Alegre, RS: 1.017 casos (2002-2007). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(11):968-973. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar um estudo retrospectivo sobre neoplasias cutâneas diagnosticadas em cães. A avaliação foi realizada pela análise dos arquivos diagnósticos do Setor de Patologia Veterinária (SPV) da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Brasil, considerando-se um intervalo de seis anos (2002 a 2007). Neste intervalo, um total de 1.869 (37,3%) amostras de pele canina foram obtidas de 5.016 amostras variadas de tecidos de cães encaminhadas ao SPV. Dentre as amostras cutâneas, 1.002 pertenciam a cães diagnosticados com um tipo de neoplasia cutânea e 15 animais apresentaram mais de uma neoplasia de pele, totalizando 1.017 (20,3%) amostras. Os resultados revelaram que 50,5% (514/1017) das neoplasias cutâneas apresentaram origem mesenquimal, 45,1% (459/1017) para epitelial e 3,9% (40/1017) para melanocítica. Mastocitoma foi o tipo neoplásico cutâneo mais frequente, diagnosticado em 228 casos (22,4%), seguido por carcinoma de células escamosas (7,5%), lipoma (7,3%), adenoma de glândula perianal (7,1%) e tricoblastoma (5,8%). Cocker Spaniel, Boxer, Poodle e Pastor Alemão foram as raças mais representadas em diversos neoplasmas. Os dados obtidos, comparados aos estudos prévios, ressaltam as variáveis raças, idade e sexo, relacionadas a alguns tumores cutâneos e salientam a importância e prevalência dos diferentes tipos de neoplasia cutânea em cães.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Teixeira W.C., Uzêda R.S., Gondim L.F.P., Silva M.I.S., Pereira H.M., Alves L.C. & Faustino M.A.G. 2010. [Prevalence of anti-Neospora caninum (Apicomplexa: Sarcocystidae) antibodies in dairy cattle in rural properties of three microrregions of Maranhão, Brazil.] Prevalência de anticorpos anti-Neospora caninum (Apicomplexa: Sarcocystidae) em bovinos leiteiros de propriedades rurais de três microrregiões no estado do Maranhão. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(9):729-734. Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Rua Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/n, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE 52171-900, Brasil. E-mail: whaubtyfranct@yahoo.com.br The objective in the present study was to research the prevalence of anti-Neospora caninum in 812 samples of blood serum of dairy cattle from farms of seven municipalities of microrregions of Itapecuru-Mirim, Middle Mearim and President Dutra, state of Maranhão, Brazil. For the calculation of sample size, it was considered a seroprevalence of 34.7% for N. caninum, with a maximum error of 9.5% and a confidence interval of 95%. To detect antibodies, it was used the technique of Indirect Immunofluorescence (IFI), with the cut-off of 1:200, using as antigen, tachyzoites strain NC-1, maintained in cell culture in the Laboratory of Diagnosis of Parasitism of the Animals, School of Veterinary Medicine of the Federal University of Bahia, Brazil. Of the total samples, it was obtained a prevalence of 50.74%. The titles ranged from 1:200 to 1:6400, distributed as follows: 108 (26.21%) serum samples showed title of 1:200; 132 (32.04%) 1:400; 94 (22.81%) 1:800; 46 (11.16%) of 1:1600; 23 (5.58%) of 1:3200 and nine (2.18%) with titers of 1:6400. Among the microrregiões the Itapecuru-Mirim showed the lowest percentage of animals seropositive (20.69%) and President Dutra the largest (47.66%). It was observed higher prevalence of seropositives in females (46.80%) than in males (52.46%). There was no significant difference (P> 0.05) for the microrregions variables, sex and age. Concluded that the dairy cattle of the regions studied are exposed to infection by N. caninum.

• Neospora caninum neosporosis Sarcocystidae nosporose

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Teixeira W.C., Uzêda R.S., Gondim L.F.P., Silva M.I.S., Pereira H.M., Alves L.C. & Faustino M.A.G. 2010. [Prevalence of anti-Neospora caninum (Apicomplexa: Sarcocystidae) antibodies in dairy cattle in rural properties of three microrregions of Maranhão, Brazil.] Prevalência de anticorpos anti-Neospora caninum (Apicomplexa: Sarcocystidae) em bovinos leiteiros de propriedades rurais de três microrregiões no estado do Maranhão. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(9):729-734. Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Rua Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/n, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE 52171-900, Brasil. E-mail: whaubtyfranct@yahoo.com.br Objetivou-se, no presente estudo, pesquisar a prevalência de anticorpos anti-Neospora caninum em 812 amostras de soros sangüíneos de bovinos leiteiros procedentes de propriedades rurais de sete municípios das microrregiões de Itapecuru-Mirim, Médio Mearim e Presidente Dutra, estado do Maranhão, Brasil. Para o cálculo do tamanho da amostra, considerou-se um soroprevalência de 34,7% para N. caninum, com erro máximo de 9,5% e intervalo de confiança de 95%. Para a detecção da presença de anticorpos da classe IgG, utilizou-se a técnica de Imunofluorescência Indireta (IFI), com ponto de corte 1:200, usando como antígeno, taquizoítos da cepa NC-1, mantida em cultura celular no Laboratório de Diagnóstico das Parasitoses dos Animais da Escola de Medicina Veterinária da UFBA. Do total de amostras analisadas, encontrou-se uma prevalência de 50,74%. Os títulos variaram de 1:200 a 1:6400, assim distribuídos: 108 (26,21%) amostras de soro apresentaram título de 1:200; 132 (32,04%) 1:400; 94 (22,81%) 1:800; 46 (11,16%) 1:1600; 23 (5,58%) 1:3200 e nove (2,18%) com títulos de 1:6400. Dentre as microrregiões, a Itapecuru-Mirim apresentou o menor percentual de animais soropositivos (20,69%) e Presidente Dutra o maior (47,66%). Com relação à variável sexo, observou-se maior prevalência de sororreagentes nas fêmeas (46,80%) do que nos machos (52,46%). Não se verificou diferença significativa (P>0,05) para as variáveis microrregiões, sexo e idade. Conclui-se que os bovinos leiteiros das regiões estudadas estão expostos à infecção por N. caninum.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Holz C.L., Cibulski S.P., Teixeira T.F., Batista H.B.C.R., Campos F.S., Silva J.R., Varela A.P.M., Cenci A., Franco A.C. & Roehe P.M. 2009. [Seroprevalence of bovine herpesvirus types 1 and/or 5 in the state of Rio Grande do Sul.] Soroprevalência de herpesvírus bovinos tipos 1 e/ou 5 no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(9):767-773. Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor, Fepagro Saúde Animal, Estrada do Conde 6000, Cx. Postal 47, Eldorado do Sul, RS 92990-000, Brazil. E-mail: proehe@gmail.com This study was carried out to estimate the prevalence of antibodies to bovine herpesviruses types 1(BoHV-1) and 5 (BoHV-5) in the state of Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brazil, by testing serum samples against different BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 strains. The sera examined were obtained from a larger sample designed to estimate the prevalence of bovine brucellosis within the state. All sera were collected from cows 24 months or older, not vaccinated to bovine herpesviruses, from both dairy and beef herds. The number of samples to be tested was calculated based on an estimated prevalence of infection of 33%, with an average standard deviation of £1% and a 95% limit of agreement. Sera from 2.200 cattle from 390 farms distributed in 158 counties were tested by serum neutralization (SN) tests in search for antibodies to the following strains: BoHV-1.1 (strains EVI123/98 and Los Angeles), BoHV-5a (strain EVI88/95) and BoHV-5b (strain A663). The overall seroprevalence to BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 in the sampled herds was 29.2% (642/2.200); seropositive animals were detected in 225 (57.7%) of the sampled farms. Prevalence estimates varied according to the virus used for challenge in SN tests. The highest prevalence and sensitivity were attained when positive SN results against the four different strains were added together. The use of only one virus for challenge in SN tests would lead to a loss in sensitivity from 20.4% to 34.6% when compared to the combined SN-positive results. These findings provide evidence that antibodies to BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 are largely spread in dairy and beef herds in RS, although prevalence in distinct geographic regions is quite variable. The results were strongly affected by the virus strains used for challenge in SN testing. This must be taken into account when performing serologic tests to detect BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 antibodies. As SN test is not capable of discriminating between antibody responses to BoHV-1 and BoHV-5, type-specific prevalence remains unknown.

• Bovine herpesvirus type 1 bovine herpesvirus type 5 BoHV-1 BoHV-5 herpesvírus bovinos tipo 1 herpesvírus bovinos tipo 5

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Holz C.L., Cibulski S.P., Teixeira T.F., Batista H.B.C.R., Campos F.S., Silva J.R., Varela A.P.M., Cenci A., Franco A.C. & Roehe P.M. 2009. [Seroprevalence of bovine herpesvirus types 1 and/or 5 in the state of Rio Grande do Sul.] Soroprevalência de herpesvírus bovinos tipos 1 e/ou 5 no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(9):767-773. Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor, Fepagro Saúde Animal, Estrada do Conde 6000, Cx. Postal 47, Eldorado do Sul, RS 92990-000, Brazil. E-mail: proehe@gmail.com Este estudo objetivou estimar a prevalência de anticorpos contra os herpesvírus bovinos tipos 1 e 5 (BoHV-1 e BoHV-5) no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul (RS), Brasil, frente a diferentes cepas de BoHV-1 e BoHV-5. As amostras de soro utilizadas foram extraídas de uma amostragem mais ampla, desenhada para estimar a prevalência de brucelose bovina no Estado. Todos os soros foram coletados de vacas com idade igual ou superior a 24 meses de idade, não vacinadas contra herpesvírus bovinos, de rebanhos de corte e leite. O cálculo amostral foi baseado em uma expectativa de prevalência média de infecção de 33%, considerando-se um erro padrão não superior a 1% e um intervalo de confiança de 95%. Com base nesse cálculo foram examinados 2.200 soros, provenientes de 390 propriedades e 158 municípios. Os soros foram analisados na busca de anticorpos contra BoHV-1 e BoHV-5 pela técnica de soroneutralização (SN), executada frente a quatro cepas de vírus distintas: EVI123/98 e Los Angeles (BoHV-1.1); EVI88/95 (BoHV-5a) e A663 (BoHV-5b). A prevalência média de anticorpos contra o BoHV-1 e BoHV-5 nos animais amostrados foi de 29,2% (642/2200); animais soropositivos foram identificados em 57,7% (225/390) dos rebanhos. As estimativas de prevalência variaram de acordo com a cepa e/ou vírus utilizado para o desafio nos testes de SN. A prevalência e a sensibilidade mais altas foram obtidas quando os resultados positivos à SN frente aos quatro vírus distintos foram somados. O uso de somente um vírus de desafio na SN levaria a redução de sensibilidade de 20,4% a 34,6% quando comparada com os resultados positivos combinados. Estes achados evidenciam que anticorpos contra BoHV-1 e BoHV-5 estão amplamente difundidos nos rebanhos do RS, embora a prevalência em distintas regiões geográficas seja bastante variada. Os resultados obtidos nas estimativas de prevalência foram fortemente afetados pelas diferentes amostras de vírus usadas nos testes de SN. Esse fato deve ser levado em consideração quando estudos sorológicos para BoHV-1 e BoHV-5 forem realizados. Como a SN não é capaz de discriminar as respostas de anticorpos para BoHV-1 e BoHV-5, a prevalência tipo-específica permanece desconhecida.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pignata W.A., Alves C.J., Azevedo S.S., Dantas A.F.M., Gomes A.A.B., Remígio F.R. & Lima F.S. 2009. [Prevalence for Caprine tuberculosis in paraibano semi-arid.] Prevalência para tuberculose caprina no semi-árido paraibano. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):526-532. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Campus de Patos, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: walvet8@hotmail.com Tuberculosis is an infectious disease of world wide distribution caused by pathogenic mycobacteria that affect humans and several mammals species. In order to determine the prevalence of tuberculosis in goats and to identify risk factors associated with infection, 1,866 goats of different breeds and ages from 84 herds in the microregion of Monteiro, State of Paraíba, Northeast Brazil, were tuberculinized by the Comparative Cervical Test (CCT). Interpretation of the CCT was checked by calculation of the difference obtained between skin measures correspondent to respective tuberculins, before and 72 hours after inoculation: negative, when bovine PPD is smaller than avian PPD or larger in up to 1.8mm; suspicious or inconclusive, reaction to bovine PPD larger than avian PPD between 1.9 and 2.4mm; positive, reaction to bovine PPD larger than or equal to avian PPD in 2.5mm. From goats submitted to CCT, 0.47% (9/1866) reacted positively (95% CI = 0.23%-0.94%). The prevalence of positive herds to caprine tuberculosis was 10.71% (95% CI = 5.02-19.37%). When submitted to necropsy and histopathologic examination, a positive goat at tuberculin test presented tuberculosis-like lesions. The presence of Acid-Alcohol Resistant Bacilli (BAAR) was also detected by direct bacterioscopy; in relation to herd size, herds with larger number of animals (>25) with high incidence of the disease, and presence of the infection was evidenced in properties that raised cattle in association with goats and did not carry out tuberculin tests in cattle.

• Caprine tuberculosis prevalence tuberculin test

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pignata W.A., Alves C.J., Azevedo S.S., Dantas A.F.M., Gomes A.A.B., Remígio F.R. & Lima F.S. 2009. [Prevalence for Caprine tuberculosis in paraibano semi-arid.] Prevalência para tuberculose caprina no semi-árido paraibano. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):526-532. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Campus de Patos, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: walvet8@hotmail.com Tuberculosis is an infectious disease of world wide distribution caused by pathogenic mycobacteria that affect humans and several mammals species. In order to determine the prevalence of tuberculosis in goats and to identify risk factors associated with infection, 1,866 goats of different breeds and ages from 84 herds in the microregion of Monteiro, State of Paraíba, Northeast Brazil, were tuberculinized by the Comparative Cervical Test (CCT). Interpretation of the CCT was checked by calculation of the difference obtained between skin measures correspondent to respective tuberculins, before and 72 hours after inoculation: negative, when bovine PPD is smaller than avian PPD or larger in up to 1.8mm; suspicious or inconclusive, reaction to bovine PPD larger than avian PPD between 1.9 and 2.4mm; positive, reaction to bovine PPD larger than or equal to avian PPD in 2.5mm. From goats submitted to CCT, 0.47% (9/1866) reacted positively (95% CI = 0.23%-0.94%). The prevalence of positive herds to caprine tuberculosis was 10.71% (95% CI = 5.02-19.37%). When submitted to necropsy and histopathologic examination, a positive goat at tuberculin test presented tuberculosis-like lesions. The presence of Acid-Alcohol Resistant Bacilli (BAAR) was also detected by direct bacterioscopy; in relation to herd size, herds with larger number of animals (>25) with high incidence of the disease, and presence of the infection was evidenced in properties that raised cattle in association with goats and did not carry out tuberculin tests in cattle.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Figueiredo A.O., Pellegrin A.O., Gonçalves V.S.P., Freitas E.B., Monteiro L.A.R.C., Oliveira J.M. & Osório A.L.A.R. 2009. [Prevalence and risk factors for bovine leptospirosis in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Prevalência e fatores de risco para a leptospirose em bovinos do Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):375-381. Programa Mestrado em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: line_figueiredo@yahoo.com.br The prevalence of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies was estimated for female cattle aged 24 months or older. The sample comprised 178 herds from 22 counties in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The risk factors associated with the presence of infeccion were investigated. A total of 2,573 blood serum samples were tested against 10 leptospira serovars using the microagglutination test (MAT). Titers of 100 or higher for one or more serovars were detected in 1,801 females (98.8%) from 161 herds (96.5%). Serovar Hardjo (65.6%) was the most frequent, followed by serovar Wolffi (12.3%). These results suggest that bovine leptospirosis is widespread in all the counties under study, with a high prevalence both at the animal and the herd level. Beef farms and the Zebu breed were associated to the higher risk of herd infection by leptospiras.

• Leptospirosis Leptospirose

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Figueiredo A.O., Pellegrin A.O., Gonçalves V.S.P., Freitas E.B., Monteiro L.A.R.C., Oliveira J.M. & Osório A.L.A.R. 2009. [Prevalence and risk factors for bovine leptospirosis in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Prevalência e fatores de risco para a leptospirose em bovinos do Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):375-381. Programa Mestrado em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: line_figueiredo@yahoo.com.br The prevalence of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies was estimated for female cattle aged 24 months or older. The sample comprised 178 herds from 22 counties in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The risk factors associated with the presence of infeccion were investigated. A total of 2,573 blood serum samples were tested against 10 leptospira serovars using the microagglutination test (MAT). Titers of 100 or higher for one or more serovars were detected in 1,801 females (98.8%) from 161 herds (96.5%). Serovar Hardjo (65.6%) was the most frequent, followed by serovar Wolffi (12.3%). These results suggest that bovine leptospirosis is widespread in all the counties under study, with a high prevalence both at the animal and the herd level. Beef farms and the Zebu breed were associated to the higher risk of herd infection by leptospiras.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva-Zacarias F.G., Spohr K.A.H., Lima B.A.C., Dias J.A., Müller E.E., Ferreira Neto J.S., Turilli C. & Freitas J.C. 2009. [Prevalence of antibodies against Chlamydophila spp. in herds with bovine abortion of Paraná state, Brazil.] Prevalência de anticorpos anti-Chlamydophila spp. em propriedades rurais com histórico de aborto bovino no estado do Paraná. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):215-219. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid 380, Cx. Postal 6001, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: freitasj@uel.br Chlamydophila abortus is a recognized cause of bovine epizootic abortion. Abortion, premature birth and weak lamb/calf, stillbirth and repeat breeding in irregular intervals are the most frequent disease manifestations. The complement fixation test is the recommended by the World Organization of Animal Health (OIE) for Chlamydophila spp. serologic diagnosis. The aim of this study was estimate the prevalence of antibodies against Chlamydophila spp. in cattle herds with abortion, selected inside the sampling design of National Program of Control and Erradication of Brucellosis in Paraná state. Serum samples of 3,102 cows (age ³ 24 months) from 373 herds were analyzed by complement fixation test. Totally, 44 (1.42%) animal were positive with titers ³ 32. The seroprevalence of Chlamydophila spp. in the herds was 8.82% (6.15%-12.17%). Four variables were associated with seroprevalence for Chlamydophila spp. in the final model of logistic regression: confined or semi-confined breeding (OR=3.339, P=0.004), farms with less than 35 cows (OR=3.339, P=0.017), abortion in the pasture (OR=2.372, P=0.037) and pasture rent (OR=3.398, P=0.006) were risk factors for Chlamydophila spp. This bacterium infected a small number of cattle from herds with abortion in Paraná state. Chlamydophila spp impact as abortion cause is reduced in this state.

• Chlamydophila abortus bovine epizootic abortion serology bacteria

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Silva-Zacarias F.G., Spohr K.A.H., Lima B.A.C., Dias J.A., Müller E.E., Ferreira Neto J.S., Turilli C. & Freitas J.C. 2009. [Prevalence of antibodies against Chlamydophila spp. in herds with bovine abortion of Paraná state, Brazil.] Prevalência de anticorpos anti-Chlamydophila spp. em propriedades rurais com histórico de aborto bovino no estado do Paraná. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):215-219. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid 380, Cx. Postal 6001, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: freitasj@uel.br Chlamydophila abortus is a recognized cause of bovine epizootic abortion. Abortion, premature birth and weak lamb/calf, stillbirth and repeat breeding in irregular intervals are the most frequent disease manifestations. The complement fixation test is the recommended by the World Organization of Animal Health (OIE) for Chlamydophila spp. serologic diagnosis. The aim of this study was estimate the prevalence of antibodies against Chlamydophila spp. in cattle herds with abortion, selected inside the sampling design of National Program of Control and Erradication of Brucellosis in Paraná state. Serum samples of 3,102 cows (age ³ 24 months) from 373 herds were analyzed by complement fixation test. Totally, 44 (1.42%) animal were positive with titers ³ 32. The seroprevalence of Chlamydophila spp. in the herds was 8.82% (6.15%-12.17%). Four variables were associated with seroprevalence for Chlamydophila spp. in the final model of logistic regression: confined or semi-confined breeding (OR=3.339, P=0.004), farms with less than 35 cows (OR=3.339, P=0.017), abortion in the pasture (OR=2.372, P=0.037) and pasture rent (OR=3.398, P=0.006) were risk factors for Chlamydophila spp. This bacterium infected a small number of cattle from herds with abortion in Paraná state. Chlamydophila spp impact as abortion cause is reduced in this state.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Souza A.I., Oliveira T.M.F.S., Machado R.Z. & Camacho A.A. 2009. [Seroprevalence of infection by Trypanosoma cruzi in dogs in a rural area of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Soroprevalência da infecção por Trypanosoma cruzi em cães de uma área rural do Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):150-152. Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade para o Desenvolvimento do Estado e da Região do Pantanal, Rua Alexandre Herculano 1400, Jardim Veraneio, Campo Grande, MS 79037-280, Brazil. E-mail: aldaizabel@hotmail.com Chagas disease is an anthropozoonosis caused by Trypanosoma cruzi and dogs are considered to be one of the main reservoirs of the disease in the South America. This study evaluates the occurrence of the infection caused by T. cruzi in dogs from a rural area of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Indirect immunofluorescence test (IFI) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used in 75 dogs living in this area. The antibodies were detected in 45.3% (n=34) and 24.0% (n=18) with IFI and ELISA, respectively. The actual prevalence of the infection was confirmed as 22.7% (n=17) by the criterion of positivity in both tests. The results confirm T. cruzi infection in dogs in the region.

• Diseases of dogs Trypanosoma cruzi seroprevalence Mato Grosso do Sul

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Souza A.I., Oliveira T.M.F.S., Machado R.Z. & Camacho A.A. 2009. [Seroprevalence of infection by Trypanosoma cruzi in dogs in a rural area of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Soroprevalência da infecção por Trypanosoma cruzi em cães de uma área rural do Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):150-152. Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade para o Desenvolvimento do Estado e da Região do Pantanal, Rua Alexandre Herculano 1400, Jardim Veraneio, Campo Grande, MS 79037-280, Brazil. E-mail: aldaizabel@hotmail.com Chagas disease is an anthropozoonosis caused by Trypanosoma cruzi and dogs are considered to be one of the main reservoirs of the disease in the South America. This study evaluates the occurrence of the infection caused by T. cruzi in dogs from a rural area of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Indirect immunofluorescence test (IFI) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used in 75 dogs living in this area. The antibodies were detected in 45.3% (n=34) and 24.0% (n=18) with IFI and ELISA, respectively. The actual prevalence of the infection was confirmed as 22.7% (n=17) by the criterion of positivity in both tests. The results confirm T. cruzi infection in dogs in the region.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Souza T.M., Fighera R.A., Schmidt C., Réquia A.H., Brum J.S., Martins T.B. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Prevalence of non-tumorous canine dermatopathies in dogs from the municipality of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil (2005-2008).] Prevalência das dermatopatias não-tumorais em cães do município de Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul (2005-2008). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):157-162. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: teitsouza@yahoo.com.br The current study was aimed at determine the prevalence of non-tumorous canine dermatopathies affecting dogs from the municipality of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. From March 2005 to June de 2008, the authors followed-up canine dermatological cases from two sources: those referred to the Dermatology Sector of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria and those from a private practice. During this period 480 dogs with dermatological problems were examined; in 393 (81.9%) it was possible to establish a definitive diagnosis and in 87 (18.1%) the diagnosis was inconclusive. Four hundred and twenty four primary diagnosis and 78 secondary diagnosis were performed in the 393 dogs with conclusive diagnosis, totaling 502 diagnosis. The distribution of the diagnosis according to the categories of diagnosed dermatopathies was as follows: Allergic (190/502 [37.8%]), bacterial (103/502 [20.5%]), parasitic (97/502 [19.3%]), environmental (28/502 [5,6%]), mycotic (20/502 [4.0%]), endocrine (13/502 [2.6%]), keratinization disturbances (11/502 [2.2%]), psychogenic (9/502 [1.8%]), acquired alopecias (6/502 [1.2%]), autoimmune (6/502 [1.2%]), inherited (6/502 [1.2%]), pigmentary disturbances (1/502 [0.2%], nutritional (1/502 [0.2%]), and sundry conditions (11/502 [2.2%]). In general, the ten most frequently diagnosed non-tumorous dermatopathies in decreasing order of frequency were: Atopy, flea bite allergic dermatitis, bacterial folliculitis, demodectic mange, deep bacterial folliculitis/furunculosis, sarcoptic mange, myiasis, food allergy, traumatic pyoderma, and Malassezia dermatitis. These 10 conditions together made up approximately for three quarters of all canine skin diseases diagnosed in the current study.

• Diseases of dogs skin diseases dermatology dermatopathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Souza T.M., Fighera R.A., Schmidt C., Réquia A.H., Brum J.S., Martins T.B. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Prevalence of non-tumorous canine dermatopathies in dogs from the municipality of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil (2005-2008).] Prevalência das dermatopatias não-tumorais em cães do município de Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul (2005-2008). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):157-162. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: teitsouza@yahoo.com.br The current study was aimed at determine the prevalence of non-tumorous canine dermatopathies affecting dogs from the municipality of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. From March 2005 to June de 2008, the authors followed-up canine dermatological cases from two sources: those referred to the Dermatology Sector of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria and those from a private practice. During this period 480 dogs with dermatological problems were examined; in 393 (81.9%) it was possible to establish a definitive diagnosis and in 87 (18.1%) the diagnosis was inconclusive. Four hundred and twenty four primary diagnosis and 78 secondary diagnosis were performed in the 393 dogs with conclusive diagnosis, totaling 502 diagnosis. The distribution of the diagnosis according to the categories of diagnosed dermatopathies was as follows: Allergic (190/502 [37.8%]), bacterial (103/502 [20.5%]), parasitic (97/502 [19.3%]), environmental (28/502 [5,6%]), mycotic (20/502 [4.0%]), endocrine (13/502 [2.6%]), keratinization disturbances (11/502 [2.2%]), psychogenic (9/502 [1.8%]), acquired alopecias (6/502 [1.2%]), autoimmune (6/502 [1.2%]), inherited (6/502 [1.2%]), pigmentary disturbances (1/502 [0.2%], nutritional (1/502 [0.2%]), and sundry conditions (11/502 [2.2%]). In general, the ten most frequently diagnosed non-tumorous dermatopathies in decreasing order of frequency were: Atopy, flea bite allergic dermatitis, bacterial folliculitis, demodectic mange, deep bacterial folliculitis/furunculosis, sarcoptic mange, myiasis, food allergy, traumatic pyoderma, and Malassezia dermatitis. These 10 conditions together made up approximately for three quarters of all canine skin diseases diagnosed in the current study.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva E.F., Seyffert N., Jouglard S.D.D., Athanazio D.A., Dellagostin O.A. & Brod C.S. 2009. [Seroprevalence of leptospiral infection in capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) in a slaughterhouse of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Soroprevalência da infecção leptospiral em capivaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) abatidas em um frigorífico do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(8):174-176. Laboratório do Centro de Controle de Zoonoses, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil. E-mail: efsilva@ufpel.edu.br Capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) are wild rodents from the American Continent with increasing importance as a commercial alternative source of meat for human consumption. Studies on seroprevalence for leptospiral infection are scarce and restricted to free living capybaras. We report detection of agglutinating antibodies against leptospires in 27% (6/22) of all animals in a slaughterhouse from Rio Grande do Sul. The highest antibody titers predicted Australis as the infecting serogroup due to reactions against a reference strain of serovar Bratislava and a canine local isolate of serovar Australis, characterized as Leptospira noguchii. The data presented in this report highlight that a considerable fraction of capybaras in captivity may behave as reservoir for pathogenic leptospires emphasizing the occupational risk of those who deal with animal farming and slaughter.

• Leptospirosis capybara serology agglutinins

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Silva E.F., Seyffert N., Jouglard S.D.D., Athanazio D.A., Dellagostin O.A. & Brod C.S. 2009. [Seroprevalence of leptospiral infection in capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) in a slaughterhouse of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Soroprevalência da infecção leptospiral em capivaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) abatidas em um frigorífico do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(8):174-176. Laboratório do Centro de Controle de Zoonoses, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil. E-mail: efsilva@ufpel.edu.br Capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) are wild rodents from the American Continent with increasing importance as a commercial alternative source of meat for human consumption. Studies on seroprevalence for leptospiral infection are scarce and restricted to free living capybaras. We report detection of agglutinating antibodies against leptospires in 27% (6/22) of all animals in a slaughterhouse from Rio Grande do Sul. The highest antibody titers predicted Australis as the infecting serogroup due to reactions against a reference strain of serovar Bratislava and a canine local isolate of serovar Australis, characterized as Leptospira noguchii. The data presented in this report highlight that a considerable fraction of capybaras in captivity may behave as reservoir for pathogenic leptospires emphasizing the occupational risk of those who deal with animal farming and slaughter.