Pseudophilid cestodes the genus Spirometra can infect a wide range of intermediate hosts in larval stages, while adult stages parasitize domestic animals, wildlife, and humans. In South America, descriptions of adults in wildlife are scarce. This study reports the presence of Spirometra sp. eggs in three species of wild carnivores from Paraguay (Chrysocyon brachyurus, Leopardus geoffroyi and Procyon cancrivorus), and microscopic characterization of a recovered adult specimen from L. geoffroyi. Fecal samples were examined using conventional methods, revealing eggs compatible with Spirometra sp., in all three hosts. The adult cestode was processed by basic fuchsin staining for morphological analysis of the complete preparation. General characteristics confirmed the identification at a genus level. These findings represent the first microscopic description of adult Spirometra from wild carnivores in Paraguay and provide baseline anatomical data for future taxonomic and epidemiological studies, highlighting the relevance of wildlife reservoirs within the One Health framework.
The present study investigated the epidemiology and molecular characteristics of Trypanosoma evansi infection in dromedary camels in Saudi Arabia using integrated serological, clinical, parasitological and molecular techniques. A total of 540 she-camels from two regions (Al-Qassim region and western region, KSA), representing different breeds, ages and management systems, were examined by ELISA, and 20 clinically suspected cases were further evaluated by Giemsa-stained blood smears and ITS-PCR, followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The overall seroprevalence of surra was 28.8%, but it varied markedly between regions (6.66% in Al-Qassim vs. 51.11% in the west), age categories and production systems; young camels (<6 years), racing (Hijan) animals and intensively managed herds showed significantly higher odds of seropositivity. Clinically affected camels predominantly exhibited a chronic disease pattern characterized by lacrimation, pallor, cachexia and subcutaneous edema, and all clinically diseased animals were parasitologically positive. ITS-PCR yielded a specific ≈467 bp amplicon in all tested clinical samples, and sequencing of five representative isolates (LC921187–LC921191) confirmed high identity with reference T. evansi sequences. Phylogenetic analysis placed the Saudi isolates in a distinct cluster within the T. evansi lineage, closely related to Asian isolates and clearly separated from African and South American genotypes. These findings demonstrate that T. evansi is highly endemic in Saudi camels, with infection strongly influenced by geography and management, and reveal a unique Saudi Arabian lineage, underscoring the need for region-tailored surveillance and control strategies against surra.
Studies on the diversity of haemosporidians infecting larger Neotropical birds classified under vulnerable conservation status remain scarce in the literature. Here, we present the first molecular evidence (cytb) of Plasmodium huffi-like in Pteroglossus bailloni (Piciformes) and Haemoproteus sp. in Crax fasciolata (Galliformes) from the Atlantic Forest, obtained at a Wildlife Triage Center in the municipality of Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The three new lineages detected in three individuals of P. bailloni are distinct and clustered within a clade (98% bootstrap support) containing 13 additional lineages of P. huffi and Plasmodium sp., showing low genetic divergence. The new Haemoproteus lineage detected in C. fasciolata (Galliformes) clustered within a clade (99% bootstrap support) containing seven other lineages of Haemoproteus syrnii and Haemoproteus sp.; however, due to the previous taxonomic uncertainty surrounding H. syrnii, we did not assign the new lineage to the species level. The new records of haemosporidians in C. fasciolata (vulnerable) and P. bailloni (near threatened) highlight the need to expand investigations on haemosporidians infecting bird species with some degree of conservation vulnerability and inhabiting landscapes strongly transformed by human activities.
The cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus represents one of the main sanitary challenges for Brazilian cattle production, especially in tropical regions, due to significant productivity losses and the increasing resistance to synthetic chemical acaricides. Despite the widespread use of these products, studies evaluating phenotypic resistance to commercial formulations remain scarce in semi-arid regions such as northwestern Minas Gerais, where cattle farming plays a significant economic role. This study evaluated the efficacy of different commercial acaricides against R. microplus populations collected from farms in different municipalities in the northern and northwestern regions of Minas Gerais, using the Larval Packet Test (LPT) at the recommended commercial dose and at discriminating doses. The São João Del Rei strain from Agricultural Research Company of Minas Gerais (EPAMIG) was used as a susceptibility reference. A total of eight field populations were analyzed using products containing pyrethroids, organophosphates, formamidines, and chemical associations. The results showed high variability in efficacy, with populations classified as susceptible and others showing phenotypic resistance at levels II and III, particularly to amitraz and synthetic pyrethroids. It was observed that 50% of the farms showed resistance to amitraz, 25% to deltamethrin, and 37.8% to cypermethrin alone and to the association of cypermethrin + chlorpyrifos + citronella. These findings confirm the occurrence of acaricide resistance in municipalities of Minas Gerais and reinforce the importance of continuous monitoring of product efficacy, the adoption of integrated management strategies, and the rotation of active ingredients to delay resistance progression and optimize cattle tick control in the region.
Coccidiosis is a disease of significant economic impact in domestic animals, including rabbits, whose severity is influenced by multiple factors, among them the Eimeria species involved in the infection. This study investigated the occurrence of protozoa of the genus Eimeria in a colony of rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) maintained at the animal facility of the Fundação de Parques Municipais e Zoobotânica de Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The colony, composed of 198 individuals, was evaluated due to high mortality in recently weaned kits (31–45 days old), associated with severe diarrhea. Coproparasitological examinations revealed the presence of Eimeria spp. oocysts in 41.2% (7/17) of the samples analyzed, and the species E. nagpurensis, E. exigua, E. magna, E. media, E. perforans, E. intestinalis, E. coecicola, and E. flavescens were identified using morphometric methods. Histopathological findings demonstrated intestinal changes associated with parasitic multiplication, in addition to concomitant lesions, suggesting deficiencies in sanitary management. Furthermore, Escherichia coli was isolated from the cecal contents through bacteriological analyses, suggesting its involvement in the infectious process. However, amplification of the Apicomplexa 18S rRNA or cox1 genes was unsuccessful when using DNA extracted from paraffin-embedded tissue. The results highlight the importance of adopting rigorous biosecurity measures and continuous monitoring to reduce the impact of coccidiosis and its bacterial coinfections in rabbit husbandry.
Canine leishmaniosis, caused by infection with Leishmania spp., can cause severe disease in dogs. While not endemic in Canada, dogs are regularly imported from countries where the disease is endemic. This study aimed to describe imported cases of canine leishmaniosis in Canada, utilizing mixed prospective (n = 8), and retrospective (n = 13) data. Demographic, life history and laboratory data (i.e., whole blood, serum, urine samples) as well as physical examination findings at diagnosis and following an initial course of treatment were collected. Additionally, dog caregivers (i.e., owners) completed surveys at the time of diagnosis, and 1 year following diagnosis to collect data on clinical presentation, disease progression, and experiences surrounding disease diagnosis, treatment, and management. Twenty-one dogs were enrolled in the study, and at diagnosis the most frequently reported clinical signs by caregivers included dermatological abnormalities (21/21, 100%), decreased activity (12/21, 57.1%), abnormal nail growth (10/21, 47.6%), and ocular abnormalities (9/21, 42.9%). Dogs also presented with hyperglobulinemia (n = 17), hypoalbuminemia (n = 13), and anemia (n = 9). All caregivers opted to provide an initial course of treatment, after which serum protein levels significantly reduced, while median red blood cell counts, haemoglobin, haematocrit, and platelet levels all significantly increased. Caregivers frequently reported challenges surrounding medication access (10/17, 58.8%). One year post-diagnosis, caregivers reported a resolution of clinical signs in almost dogs (13/17, 76.5%). This study provides insight into the current context of canine leishmaniosis in Canada and identifies the need for focused educational supports for Canadian veterinarians and caregivers managing these cases.
Canine visceral leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infantum has recently been confirmed as autochthonous in Costa Rica, yet molecular evidence from peridomestic settings remains limited. We investigated dogs clinically suspected of leishmaniasis and screened phlebotomine sand flies collected in the same canine focus in Tamarindo (Guanacaste Province) between March and October 2025. Ten dogs were tested using a rapid serological assay and real-time PCR (qPCR) targeting kinetoplast minicircle DNA (kDNA); qPCR-positive samples were further assessed by PCR targeting the internal transcribed spacer 1 region (ITS-1 PCR) and sequencing for species confirmation. In parallel, female sand flies were morphologically identified, pooled by species/site/feeding status (2–11 per pool), and screened by kDNA qPCR; selected positive pools were evaluated by digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) to corroborate low-level detection. Blood-meal sources were investigated in qPCR-positive pools using host DNA markers. Four dogs were seropositive and qPCR-positive, and ITS-1 sequencing confirmed L. infantum in two cases, whereas other qPCR-positive dog samples did not yield ITS-1 amplicons, consistent with low parasite DNA loads. Forty-five female sand flies were collected and grouped into 13 pools; three pools (all composed of Lutzomyia serrana) were qPCR-positive near the detection limit, including one non-engorged pool, corroborated by ddPCR. Blood-meal analysis detected canine DNA in one positive pool and avian DNA in others. These findings document concurrent detection of canine L. infantum infection and Leishmania DNA in peridomestic sand fly pools from the same locality. Although the entomological findings should be interpreted cautiously due to low parasite DNA loads and the lack of species-level confirmation in sand flies, the results provide preliminary evidence consistent with local Leishmania circulation and support the need for integrated One Health surveillance of dogs and vectors in Costa Rica.
The topical combination of selamectin and sarolaner (Stronghold® Plus in the European Union and Revolution® Plus in global regions) is a low-volume, spot-on parasiticide for monthly administration on cats providing a minimum dose of 6.0 mg/kg selamectin and 1.0 mg/kg sarolaner. The combination of two active ingredients with efficacy against fleas (Ctenocephalides felis) but with different modes of action works in synchrony to provide both high efficacy and fast speed of kill against fleas, resulting in an inhibited flea egg production,reduced flea allergic dermatitis and risk of infection with Dipylidium caninum. Broad-spectrum efficacy against 10 tick species has been demonstrated with efficacy exceeding 90% for at least four weeks after a single treatment against Amblyomma americanum, Amblyomma maculatum, Dermacentor reticulatus, Dermacentor variabilis, Haemaphysalis longicornis, Ixodes hexagonus, Ixodes holocyclus, Ixodes ricinus, Ixodes scapularis, and Rhipicephalus sanguineus. The rapid speed of kill reduces the likelihood of transmission of tick-borne pathogens such as Borrelia burgdorferi, Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Cytauxzoon felis. Single-dose studies targeting mites demonstrated high efficacy against Otodectes cynotis, and complete elimination of Notoedres cati within 30 days. Infestations with Demodex spp. have been successfully treated with single or multiple applications. Next to its efficacy against a broad range of ectoparasites, the well-known efficacy of selamectin against Toxocara cati, Ancylostoma tubaeformae and Dirofilaria immitis was confirmed in laboratory studies and field studies. The selamectin and sarolaner combination thus targets a broad spectrum of parasites, providing comprehensive parasite control.
Although gastrointestinal helminths have a high prevalence in non-human primates (NHPs), there is still a large lack of knowledge about their interactions with climate-driven seasonal patterns, particularly in tropical rainforests. Using gastrointestinal dissections from 11 free-ranging NHP species (N = 190 individuals) donated by indigenous subsistence hunters, we investigated gastrointestinal helminth infections in two areas in the northeastern Peruvian Amazon. Helminth richness included seven nematodes, two cestodes, and one acanthocephala. Parasites were detected in 85.3% of NHPs, with the most common helminth taxa identified being Physaloptera dilatata, Trypanoxyuris sp., Strongyloides cebus, Molineus torulosus and Prosthenorchis elegans. We obtained data on helminth occurrence, diversity, and location within the gastrointestinal tract and parasite-induced histopathological lesions. Significant differences in parasitic indicators in relation to seasonal variations in climate, particularly temperature and water levels. These findings provide valuable insights into the helminth infection dynamics of free-ranging primates in the Amazon, highlighting key parasite-host relationships and their pathological impacts. This study contributes to our understanding of primate health and parasite ecology in a highly biodiverse region and provides valuable information for understanding the potential consequences of global warming on the transmission of parasitic infections.
Eimeria gilruthi, an underreported coccidian parasite, primarily infects the abomasum of small ruminants. It has an unclear life cycle, and its phylogenetic relationship remains poorly understood. Most E. gilruthi infections are incidental, with rare descriptions of those associated with clinical disease. This study aims to characterize the lesions, immune sresponse, and molecular identity of E. gilruthi in naturally infected small ruminants. Histopathology, special stains, and immunohistochemistry for immune cells were used to assess tissue responses in the abomasum of 4 goats and one sheep. Molecular characterization was performed targeting the 18S and ITS1 regions of its rDNA and cox3 regions of its mDNA, followed by phylogenetic analysis. All animals harbored megaloschizonts within hypertrophic host cells, accompanied by lymphohistiocytic and eosinophilic abomasitis in the deep mucosa without evidence of sexual stages or oocyst formation. Immunohistochemistry revealed an inflammatory infiltrate composed of CD3+ T and CD20+ B lymphocytes and IBA-1+ macrophages, especially around immature schizonts, with fewer eosinophils. Molecular analysis revealed genetic divergence among isolates. While Eimeria from goats clustered with E. gilruthi, E. christenseni, and E. alpacae, Eimeria from sheep grouped with E. bovis, E. zuernii, and E. ellipsoidalis, suggesting potential host-specific lineages or different species. These findings enhance current understanding of E. gilruthi immune response and emphasize the need for further research into its taxonomy, life cycle, and host specificity to clarify its impact on small ruminant health.
Histomonosis is a parasitic disease caused by Histomonas meleagridis, a protozoan that can lead to necrotizing typhlitis and hepatitis in several bird species. Currently, only a few cases have been reported in peafowl; therefore, limited information is available regarding the pathogenicity of the parasite. in this species. The present study aimed to investigate a case of histomonosis in peafowl originating from a free-range farm, housing various avian species and other animals. In November 2022, two peafowl, aged 4 and 8 months, were submitted for necropsy at the Unit of Avian Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH). One week prior to presentation, peafowl showed depression, anorexia, and apathy. On postmortem examination, the liver was enlarged and exhibited multifocal, circumscribed necrotic lesions. The caeca were grossly distended, with yellowish content, necrotic foci, ulceration in the wall, adhesions with adjacent organs, and evidence of peritonitis. Histomonosis was suspected based on the post-mortem examination. To confirm the diagnosis, parasitological examination was performed on faecal samples, while tissue samples from the intestine, liver, and spleen were collected for histopathological examination. Parasitological examination revealed numerous spherical protozoa with a diameter of 8–14 μm, morphologically similar to H. meleagridis. Histopathological examination demonstrated ulcerative necrotizing typhlitis and necrotizing hepatitis. Furthermore, periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) histochemical staining revealed trophozoites morphologically similar to H. meleagridis. The lack of commercially available treatments and limited knowledge of the prevalence of this parasite among domestic and free-living birds in Greece highlight the importance of implementing strict biosecurity measures on backyard and free-range poultry farms to prevent the establishment of endemic infections.
Rickettsia species phylotype G022 (G022) and Rickettsia tillamookensis both maintain a low infection prevalence in Ixodes pacificus ticks and share a close phylogenetic history with pathogenic Rickettsia species. The transmission mechanisms and pathogenic potential of I. pacificus-borne Rickettsia are poorly understood. The low prevalence of G022 and R. tillamookensis suggests that vertebrate species are utilized for maintenance, though identification of vertebrate amplifier and reservoir hosts utilized by Rickettsia is limited. To evaluate the molecular occurrence of G022 and R. tillamookensis and the sentinel utility of domestic dogs, a molecular survey was conducted. Buffy coat and blood plasma samples from 175 domestic dogs collected from Humboldt and Sonoma counties in northern California were screened for rickettsial DNA and anti-rickettsial antibodies, respectively. Dogs were screened for antibodies against Rickettsia spp. and tested for seroreactivity against R. tillamookensis, Rickettsia rickettsii subsp. californica, and Rickettsia rhipicephali. Because G022 has not yet been isolated, this Rickettsia species was omitted from the serological survey. Of the 175 dogs tested, three (1.71%; 95% CI: 0.58%–4.90%) were seropositive for Rickettsia spp. by indirect immunofluorescence antibody assay (IFA); two dogs (1.14%; 95% CI: 0.31%–4.10%) demonstrated seroreactivity by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), suggesting previous exposure to Rickettsia spp. Among dogs from Sonoma County, 2.88% (3/104; 95% CI: 1.0%-8.14%) of plasma samples were seropositive for Rickettsia spp. by IFA, and 1.92% (2/104; 95% CI: 0.53%-6.74%) demonstrated seroreactivity by ELISA, while all the dogs from Humboldt County were seronegative for both methods. Although the ELISA results were not considered species-specific, two plasma samples demonstrated the greatest seroreactivity against R. tillamookensis and R. rickettsii subsp. californica, respectively, suggesting previous exposure to Rickettsia spp. with epitope similarity to R. tillamookensis and R. rickettsii subsp. californica, respectively. No DNA was detected for G022 or R. tillamookensis by quantitative real-time PCR, with a limit of detection of approximately 3.6 target copies per reaction for G022 and 1 genomic copy per 2 μl of template DNA per reaction for R. tillamookensis.
The present study was undertaken to investigate the population structure of gastrointestinal (GI) nematodes in sheep of Kashmir and evaluate the in-vivo anthelmintic efficacy of Artemisia maritima powder, along with its effects on selected haematological parameters, in comparison with fenbendazole. Naturally infected sheep were allocated to treatment groups receiving fenbendazole (5 mg/kg body weight) or dried powdered aerial parts of A.maritima administered orally at doses of 1, 2, and 3 g/kg body weight. The plant material was shade-dried, pulverized into a fine powder, and administered directly without solvent extraction. Anthelmintic efficacy was evaluated using faecal egg count reduction test (FECRT), and haematological parameters were monitored before and after treatment. A total of 180 faecal samples were collected from sheep farms in Ganderbal district, Kashmir, to determine the infection with and species composition of GI nematodes using faecal examination and coproculture techniques. For the in-vivo trial, 50 naturally infected sheep (EPG >150) were randomly divided into five groups: three groups treated orally with A. maritima powder at 1, 2 and 3 g/kg body weight, one group treated with fenbendazole (5 mg/kg), and one was kept as untreated infected control. Faecal egg counts were recorded on days 0, 3, 7, 10, 14 and 21 post-treatments, and efficacy was assessed using the faecal egg count reduction test (FECRT). Haematological parameters were evaluated on days 0, 7, 14 and 21 post-treatments. Data were analyzed using one-way and repeated-measures ANOVA. Out of 180 samples, 72.20% were positive for strongyle eggs. Coproculture revealed Haemonchus spp. (56%) as the predominant nematode, followed by Trichostrongylus, Ostertagia, Chabertia, Bunostomum and Oesophagostomum spp. A. maritima produced a dose and time-dependent reduction in faecal egg counts, with maximum FECR of 70.40% at 3 g/kg body weight on day 21 post-treatment, compared to 85.81% in the fenbendazole-treated group. Treated sheep showed significant improvements in haemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume and total erythrocyte count, together with reductions in total leukocyte count and eosinophil percentage, whereas untreated controls exhibited progressive anaemia and leucocytosis. The findings demonstrate that A. maritima powder exhibits significant in-vivo anthelmintic activity against mixed gastrointestinal nematode infections in sheep, accompanied by marked improvement in haematological parameters. Although less effective than fenbendazole, A. maritima shows promise as a natural, plant-based alternative anthelmintic, particularly in the context of rising drug resistance. Further studies involving phytochemical characterization, dose optimization, safety evaluation and large scale validation are warranted to confirm its therapeutic potential and elucidate its mechanism of action.
BACKGROUND:Canine vector-borne pathogens (CVBPs) cause a wide range of diseases. No studies have been performed on the prevalence of CVBPs in shelter dogs in Cyprus, despite the regular exporting of dogs from Cypriot shelters for rehoming. METHODS:From August 2017 to August 2019, a cross-sectional descriptive study was performed in dogs from three shelters in Cyprus. Quantitative PCRs for 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum' (CMhp), Mycoplasma haemocanis, Leishmania spp. and Babesia spp. and conventional PCRs and sequencing for Ehrlichia/Anaplasma spp. and Hepatozoon spp. were performed on DNA extracted from EDTA blood samples. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify any risk factors associated with CVBPs PCR-positive status. RESULTS:Of samples collected from 145 dogs, eight were excluded from further analysis due to the presence of PCR inhibitors. Of the remaining 137, 76 (55.5%) were PCR-positive for at least one CVBPs, of which 21 dogs had more than one pathogen. The infections comprised 62/137 (45.3%) Hepatozoon canis, 14/137 (10.2%) Anaplasma platys, 13/137 (9.5%) M. haemocanis, 9/137 (6.6%) Leishmania spp., and 2/137 (1.5%) CMhp. All dogs tested negative for Babesia spp.. Regression analysis showed that positive-PCR status for A. platys was positively associated with the presence of ectoparasites, co-infection with H. canis, and the shelter being located in Paphos compared to the shelters in Nicosia, whilst age was positively associated with M. haemocanis positive-PCR status. CONCLUSIONS:The overall prevalence of CVBPs is high in Cypriot shelter dogs, including some with zoonotic potential. CVBPs pose a threat to the canine population in Cyprus, and further action is needed by local carers and veterinary authorities to contain their spread by limiting exportation or ensuring testing before travelling for export to avoid infection spread by the movement of dogs.
Bangladesh, one of the top fish-producing countries in South Asia, has made significant progress in inland and marine fisheries and aquaculture in recent years. Parasitic infections in fish remain a major challenge and a threat to fish abundance and biodiversity. Fishes are affected by both external and internal parasites, with helminths being the most common. These parasites can affect fish growth, survival, and marketability and can pose a risk of fish-borne zoonosis. In recent years, global concern about food safety and security has remained high. Bangladesh is expanding its global fish and fish product exports, where fishbone parasites, particularly zoonotic helminths, are a major concern. But the occurrence and distribution of helminth parasites in Bangladeshi fish are not well documented due to lack of data. This study therefore aimed to gather and summarise the available data on helminth occurrence in fishes in Bangladesh using a systematic approach. Relevant articles were retrieved from five electronic databases/repositories, including PubMed, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar. A total of 55 articles were included in this review that reported helminth infections in 68 species of marine and inland fish, 50 families, and 96 genera of helminths, including acanthocephalans, cestodes, monogeneans, nematodes, and trematodes. Notably, 31 genera were considered to have zoonotic relevance. These findings suggest that collective measures should be taken, including implementing a parasitic disease control plan in aquaculture practices and raising public awareness about fishbone helminths in Bangladesh. Additionally, a collaborative approach should be adopted with neighbouring regions to combat this issue.
The aim of this study was to detect genomic regions and genes associated with gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) resistance in Pelibuey sheep, based in deworming necessity (NOD) estimated by fecal egg count (FEC). During a ten-months period, deworming criterion was based on GIN eggs per gram (EPG), then animals exceeding 1000 EPG were dewormed, and individuals were classified as cases (dewormed at least once) or controls (non-deworming at all). Animals were genotyped with the GGP Ovine50k genome profiler microarray. Quality control of dataset and case-control GWAS were carried to identify associated candidate genes and quantitative trait loci (QTL). Two genome-wide strongly associated SNPs were detected on chromosomes 2 and 3, located near FEC associated QTLs and immune-related genes: GALNT6, KLRK1, KLRD1, CLEC1B, FGF13, TMEM52B, OLR1, and CLEC7A. The identified genes are involved in key defense mechanisms such as mucus synthesis, immune signaling, and natural-killer cell activation, supporting their relevance as candidate genes for GIN-resistance selection in Pelibuey hair-sheep.
Toxocara spp. are zoonotic parasites that cause toxocariasis in humans. In Vietnam, information on these parasites is fragmented, and many local reports remain inaccessible to the international research community. This study conducted a comprehensive literature review to assess the distribution and prevalence, and to estimate the true prevalence of Toxocara spp. in humans, dogs, and cats in Vietnam. The true prevalence was estimated using a Bayesian approach based on diagnostic test characteristics used in each published study. Of 766 studies screened, 58 studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis, including 109,597 humans, 8067 dogs, and 1034 cats. The pooled true prevalence was estimated at 38.5% (95% CI: 31.4-45.5) in humans, 42.3% (95% CI: 30.3-54.2) in dogs, and 50.1% (95% CI: 26.7-73.5) in cats. While numerous studies reported seroprevalence of Toxocara spp. antibodies in humans, data on Toxocara spp. in dogs and cats were limited. ELISA was employed in all included human studies to detect antibodies against Toxocara spp. larvae in humans, and the estimated true prevalence was largely consistent with the apparent prevalence, reflecting the test's assumed accuracy rather than definitive proof. Microscopic examination in dogs and cats likely underestimates the parasite prevalence due to limited sensitivity. The high prevalence of Toxocara spp. in dogs and cats highlights a significant public health concern, particularly given the inadequate management of dog and cat feces. These findings highlight the need for One Health strategies to control Toxocara spp. and reduce its burden in Vietnam.
Canine leishmaniosis (CanL) is a vector-borne disease caused mainly by the protozoan parasite Leishmania infantum, transmitted to its vertebrate hosts by phlebotomine sand fly insects. Clinical disease and a higher proportion of subclinical infections are endemic in several countries, with a high prevalence in the Mediterranean basin. The clinical signs and lesions of CanL are diverse, but oral manifestations have only been reported occasionally. Here we present an atypical case of Leishmania infection on the tongue of a domestic dog. A 12-year-old neutered male mongrel dog was presented to the University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro Veterinary Teaching Hospital with intermittent lameness of the left pelvic limb and a cutaneous lesion on the nose. Physical examination revealed generalized lymphadenopathy, as well as the presence of an oral mass on the ventral surface of the tongue. Histological examination of this oral lesion showed extensive mucosal ulcerations with granulomatous inflammation in the submucosa. Large macrophages were found, containing intracytoplasmic structures compatible with Leishmania spp. amastigotes. Immunohistochemistry identified several leishmanial amastigote forms both inside macrophages and in the surrounding tissue. In the present case, parasites were unexpectedly identified in the histopathological examination of a tongue mass. Histopathology complemented by immunohistochemistry were fundamental tools for detecting Leishmania parasites and making a definitive diagnosis of CanL in this case. It is also important to conduct a systematic and thorough physical examination, including oral cavity and its floor, for any mass lesions that may be present in dogs with leishmaniosis.
