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Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in the Dorsal Skin of Hamsters: a Useful Model for the Screening of Antileishmanial Drugs
Published on: April 21, 2012
Canine leishmaniosis
1Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Live Sciences (SGGW), Warsaw, Poland. rafal-sapierzynski@sggw.pl
Polish Journal of Veterinary Sciences
|August 8, 2008
Summary
This study presents the first recognized case of canine visceral leishmaniosis (CVL) in Poland. Diagnosis involved physical examination, histopathology, cytopathology, and serology, confirming the zoonotic disease in a domestic dog.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Parasitology
- Zoonotic Diseases
- Canine Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Canine visceral leishmaniosis (CVL) is a significant zoonotic disease caused by Leishmania parasites.
- Clinical signs include weight loss, enlarged lymph nodes and spleen, and organ damage.
- Limited information exists on animal leishmaniosis in Polish veterinary literature.
Observation:
- A 3-year-old female mongrel dog presented with apathy and dermatologic lesions.
- Initial scabies treatment was ineffective, prompting further investigation.
- Skin samples, lymph node aspirates, and ocular discharge were collected for analysis.
Findings:
- Histopathology and cytopathology identified Leishmania amastigotes.
- Serological tests (ELISA, IFAT) confirmed the diagnosis of CVL.
- The case highlights the presence of this zoonotic parasite in the region.
Implications:
- This case report is the first documented instance of CVL in Poland.
- It underscores the importance of considering leishmaniosis in differential diagnoses for dogs with relevant clinical signs.
- Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for animal and public health due to the zoonotic potential of CVL.
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