[Is bovine leishmaniasis spreading in Switzerland?]

The purpose of the present study was based upon the first diagnosed bovine cutaneous leishmaniasis in a cow in Switzerland in April 2009. We continued descriptively the search for other bovine cases in Switzerland. We carried out similar investigations in the original farm where the case had occurred, and in parallel also in the neighboring farm. Additionally, veterinary practitioners sent us an overall of 12 suspected cases of bovine leishmaniasis. Following diagnostic investigations, all cases were negative for Leishmania. The occurrence of this infection appears therefore to be a very rare event. Finally some differential diagnoses are discussed.