Serological and molecular detection of Leptospira spp in dogs

Rev Soc Bras Med Trop. 2018 May-Jun;51(3):364-367. doi: 10.1590/0037-8682-0276-2017.

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.

MeSH terms

  • Agglutination Tests / veterinary*
  • Animals
  • Brazil / epidemiology
  • Dog Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Dog Diseases / epidemiology
  • Dog Diseases / microbiology
  • Dogs
  • Leptospira / classification*
  • Leptospira / genetics
  • Leptospira / immunology
  • Leptospirosis / diagnosis
  • Leptospirosis / epidemiology
  • Leptospirosis / microbiology
  • Leptospirosis / veterinary*
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction / veterinary*
  • Prevalence