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Leishmanial polyarthritis in a dog.
Sandra E McConkey1, Alfonso López, Darcy Shaw
1Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Avenue, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island C1A 4P3.
Summary
A stray dog from Spain presented with polyarthritis in Canada. Diagnosis revealed leishmanial organisms in synovial fluid, indicating a parasitic cause of joint inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Parasitology
- Immunology
Background:
- Canine polyarthritis is a complex condition with diverse etiologies.
- Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease endemic in parts of Europe, including Spain.
Observation:
- A dog adopted as a stray in Spain and relocated to Canada presented with symptoms of polyarthritis.
- Clinical evaluation included synovial fluid analysis and serum protein electrophoresis.
Findings:
- Synovial fluid smears revealed the presence of Leishmania organisms within macrophages.
- Serum electrophoresis demonstrated a marked polyclonal gammopathy, suggesting an immune-mediated response.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for imported parasitic diseases, such as leishmaniasis, to manifest as polyarthritis in dogs.
- Diagnostic awareness of leishmaniasis is crucial for veterinarians in non-endemic regions when presented with affected animals.
- The findings underscore the importance of considering parasitic infections in the differential diagnosis of canine polyarthritis, especially in animals with a history of travel from endemic areas.