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Canine Leishmaniasis in Morocco: A Descriptive Prospective Clinical Study
Houda Idrissi1, Maryam Hakkour2,3, Luc Duchateau4
1Department of Pathology and Veterinary Public Health, Hassan II Agronomy and Veterinary Institute, Rabat-Instituts, Madinat Al Irfane, PO Box 6202, Rabat, Morocco.
Veterinary Medicine International
|September 17, 2021
Summary
Canine leishmaniasis (CanL) in Morocco presents diverse, nonspecific clinical signs, complicating diagnosis. Early detection and owner education are vital for controlling this zoonotic disease in dogs.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Parasitology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Canine leishmaniasis (CanL) is a significant zoonotic disease in the Mediterranean, with dogs acting as primary reservoirs.
- Morocco is an endemic region for CanL, necessitating a deeper understanding of its clinical presentation in the canine population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical manifestations of canine leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infantum in naturally infected dogs in Morocco.
- To identify risk factors and common clinical signs associated with CanL in the studied canine population.
Main Methods:
- A total of 96 dogs were evaluated at the Small Animal Clinic of IAV Hassan II in Rabat, Morocco.
- Diagnostic methods included RT-PCR and serology to confirm Leishmania infantum infection.
- Clinical signs, signalment, and owner-reported history were systematically recorded for all dogs.
Main Results:
- 33.3% of the dogs tested positive for Leishmania infantum infection.
- Positive dogs were predominantly male, purebreds aged 3-7 years, with outdoor activities, and urban origins.
- Common clinical signs included lymphadenomegaly (81.2%), dermatological disorders (65.6%), weight loss (59.3%), and exercise intolerance (56.2%).
- Anemia (68.7%) and hyperglobulinemia (72.7%) were prevalent laboratory findings.
Conclusions:
- Canine leishmaniasis exhibits varied and nonspecific clinical signs, posing diagnostic challenges.
- Systematic testing of symptomatic dogs and screening of at-risk asymptomatic dogs are recommended in endemic areas like Morocco.
- Promoting owner education on the zoonotic nature of CanL and adopting a "One Health" approach are crucial for effective disease control.
