RESUMEN
Tick-borne Apicomplexa encompass a group of parasites responsible for significant medical and veterinary diseases, including babesiosis, theileriosis, and hepatozoonosis. In this study, we investigated the presence and diversity of tick-borne Apicomplexa in wildlife and ticks inhabiting the Amazon rainforests of French Guiana. To this end, we conducted molecular screening and typing using 18S rRNA sequences on a collection of 1161 specimens belonging to 71 species, including 44 species of wild mammals, five species of passerines, and 22 species of ticks. We characterized eight genovariants of Babesia, Theileria, Hemolivia, and Hepatozoon parasites, some matching known species, while others suggested potential novel species. These parasites were detected in wild mammals, including opossums, sloths, armadillos, porcupines, margays, greater grisons, and ticks, but not in passerines. Finally, similarities with surveys conducted in Brazil highlight the specific sylvatic transmission cycles of South American tick-borne Apicomplexa.
Title: Apicomplexes transmis par les tiques chez la faune sauvage et les tiques de Guyane française. Abstract: Les Apicomplexes transmis par les tiques englobent un groupe de parasites responsables de maladies médicales et vétérinaires importantes, notamment la babésiose, la theilériose et l'hépatozoonose. Dans cette étude, nous avons étudié la présence et la diversité des Apicomplexes transmis par les tiques dans la faune sauvage et les tiques habitant les forêts tropicales amazoniennes de Guyane française. À cette fin, nous avons effectué un criblage moléculaire et un typage à l'aide de séquences d'ARNr 18S sur une collection de 1 161 spécimens appartenant à 71 espèces, dont 44 espèces de mammifères sauvages, cinq espèces de passereaux et 22 espèces de tiques. Nous avons caractérisé huit génovariants des parasites Babesia, Theileria, Hemolivia et Hepatozoon, certains correspondant à des espèces connues tandis que d'autres suggéraient de nouvelles espèces potentielles. Ces parasites ont été détectés chez des mammifères sauvages, dont des opossums, des paresseux, des tatous, des porcs-épics, des margays, des grisons et des tiques, mais pas chez des passereaux. Enfin, des similitudes avec des enquêtes menées au Brésil mettent en évidence les cycles de transmission sylvatiques spécifiques des Apicomplexa transmis par les tiques d'Amérique du Sud.
Asunto(s)
Animales Salvajes , ARN Ribosómico 18S , Garrapatas , Animales , Animales Salvajes/parasitología , ARN Ribosómico 18S/genética , Guyana Francesa/epidemiología , Garrapatas/parasitología , Enfermedades por Picaduras de Garrapatas/parasitología , Enfermedades por Picaduras de Garrapatas/veterinaria , Enfermedades por Picaduras de Garrapatas/transmisión , Enfermedades por Picaduras de Garrapatas/epidemiología , Theileria/genética , Theileria/aislamiento & purificación , Theileria/clasificación , Filogenia , Mamíferos/parasitología , Apicomplexa/aislamiento & purificación , Apicomplexa/genética , Apicomplexa/clasificación , Babesia/genética , Babesia/aislamiento & purificación , Babesia/clasificación , Bosque Lluvioso , ADN Protozoario/aislamiento & purificación , Passeriformes/parasitologíaRESUMEN
Hepatozoon spp. are tick-borne apicomplexan parasites of terrestrial vertebrates that occur worldwide. Tissue samples from small rodents and their parasitizing fleas were sampled for molecular detection and phylogenetic analysis of Hepatozoon-specific 18S rRNA gene region. After alignment and tree inference the Hepatozoon-sequences retrieved from a yellow-necked mouse (Apodemus flavicollis) placed into a strongly supported single clade demonstrating the presence of a novel species, designated Hepatozoon sp. SK3. The mode of transmission of Hepatozoon sp. SK3 is yet unknown. It is important to note that this isolate may be identical with the previously morphologically described Hepatozoon sylvatici infecting Apodemus spp.; however, no sequences are available for comparison. Furthermore, the previously reported variants Hepatozoon sp. BV1/SK1 and BV2/SK2 were detected in bank voles (Clethrionomys glareolus). It has been suggested that these variants should be identified as Hepatozoon erhardovae leading to the assumption that BV1 and BV2 are paralogous 18S rRNA gene loci of this species. Evidence has also been presented that fleas are vectors of H. erhardovae. In this study, we show with high significance that only the Hepatozoon sp. BV1 variant, but not BV2, infects the studied flea species Ctenophthalmus agyrtes, Ctenophthalmus assimilis, and Megabothris turbidus (p < 0.001). This finding suggests that Hepatozoon sp. BV2 represents an additional species besides H. erhardovae (= Hepatozoon sp. BV1), for which alternative arthropod vectors or non-vectorial modes of transmission remain to be identified. Future studies using alternative molecular markers or genome sequencing are required to demonstrate that BV1/SK1 and BV2/SK2 are different Hepatozoon species.
Asunto(s)
Coccidiosis , Eucoccidiida , Filogenia , ARN Ribosómico 18S , Animales , ARN Ribosómico 18S/genética , Coccidiosis/parasitología , Coccidiosis/veterinaria , Coccidiosis/epidemiología , Eucoccidiida/genética , Eucoccidiida/clasificación , Eucoccidiida/aislamiento & purificación , Europa (Continente) , ADN Protozoario/genética , Roedores/parasitología , Siphonaptera/clasificación , Análisis de Secuencia de ADN , ADN Ribosómico/genética , Enfermedades de los Roedores/parasitología , Enfermedades de los Roedores/epidemiología , Murinae/parasitologíaRESUMEN
Piroplasmids and Hepatozoon spp. Are apicomplexan protozoa that may cause disease in several canid species. The present study aimed to expand the knowledge on the diversity of piroplasmids and Hepatozoon in crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous; n = 12) sampled in the Pantanal of Mato Grosso do Sul State, central-western Brazil. PCR assays based on the 18S rRNA were used as screening. Three (25%) and 11 (91.7%) were positive for piroplasmids and Hepatozoon spp., respectively. Co-infection was found in three C. thous. Phylogenetic analyses based on the near-complete 18S rRNA, cox-1 and hsp70 genes evidenced the occurrence of a novel of Babesia spp. (namely Babesia pantanalensis nov. sp.) closely related to Rangelia vitalii and Babesia sp. 'Coco'. This finding was supported by the genetic divergence analysis which showed (i) high divergence, ranging from 4.17 to 5.62% for 18 S rRNA, 6.16% for hps70 and 4.91-9.25% for cox-1 and (ii) the genotype network (which displayed sequences separated from the previously described Piroplasmida species by median vectors and several mutational events). Also, phylogenetic analysis based on the 18S rRNA gene of Hepatozoon spp. positioned the sequences obtained herein in a clade phylogenetically related to Hepatozoon sp. 'Curupira 2', Hepatozoon sp. detected in domestic and wild canids from Uruguay and Hepatozoon americanum. The present study described Babesia pantanalensis nov sp. and Hepatozoon closely related to H. americanum in crab-eating foxes from Brazil. Moreover, the coinfection by piroplasmids and Hepatozoon sp. for the first time in crab-eating foxes strongly suggesting that this wild canid species potentially acts as a bio-accumulate of hemoprotozoan in wild environment.
Asunto(s)
Babesia , Babesiosis , Coccidiosis , ADN Protozoario , Genotipo , Filogenia , ARN Ribosómico 18S , Animales , Babesia/genética , Babesia/clasificación , Babesia/aislamiento & purificación , ARN Ribosómico 18S/genética , Babesiosis/parasitología , Babesiosis/epidemiología , Brasil/epidemiología , Coccidiosis/veterinaria , Coccidiosis/parasitología , Coccidiosis/epidemiología , ADN Protozoario/química , ADN Protozoario/aislamiento & purificación , Eucoccidiida/genética , Eucoccidiida/clasificación , Eucoccidiida/aislamiento & purificación , Ciclooxigenasa 1/genética , Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa/veterinaria , Proteínas HSP70 de Choque Térmico/genética , Coinfección/veterinaria , Coinfección/parasitología , Zorros/parasitología , Canidae/parasitología , Complejo IV de Transporte de Electrones/genéticaRESUMEN
Haemogregarine (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina) parasites are considered to be the most common and widespread haemoparasites in reptiles. The genus Hepatozoon (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina: Hepatozoidae) can be found parasitizing a broad range of species and, in reptiles, they infect mainly peripheral blood erythrocytes. The present study detected and characterized a haemogregarine isolated from the lizard species, Ameiva ameiva, collected from the municipality of Capanema, Pará state, north Brazil. Blood smears and imprints from lungs, brain, heart, kidney, liver, bone marrow and spleen were observed using light microscopy and the parasite was genetically identified by molecular analysis. Morphological, morphometric and molecular data were obtained. Parasite gamonts were found in 49.5% (55/111) of the blood smears from A. ameiva, and were characterized as oval, averaging 12.0 ± 0.8 × 5.9 ± 0.6 µm2 in size, which displaced the nuclei of parasitized monocytes laterally. Parasite forms resembling immature gamonts were observed in the spleen and bone marrow of the lizards. Furthermore, phylogenetic analyses of 18S rRNA sequences did not reveal gene similarity with other Hepatozoon spp. sequences from reptiles. Thus, morphological and molecular analyses have identified a new species of Hepatozoon parasite, Hepatozoon lainsoni sp. nov., which infects monocytes of the A. ameiva lizard.
Asunto(s)
Coccidiosis , Lagartos , Filogenia , Animales , Lagartos/parasitología , Brasil , Coccidiosis/veterinaria , Coccidiosis/parasitología , Eucoccidiida/genética , Eucoccidiida/aislamiento & purificación , Eucoccidiida/clasificación , ARN Ribosómico 18S/análisis , ARN Ribosómico 18S/genética , Apicomplexa/genética , Apicomplexa/aislamiento & purificación , Apicomplexa/clasificación , Eritrocitos/parasitología , ADN ProtozoarioRESUMEN
Eight hunting dogs were visited by a state veterinarian on the island of Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies, as owners reported anorexia and paralysis in five of their dogs. The veterinarian observed a combination of clinical signs consistent with tick-borne illness, including fever, anorexia, anaemia, lethargy and paralysis. Blood and ticks were collected from each dog and submitted to a diagnostic laboratory for analysis. Microscopic analysis revealed a mixed infection of intracytoplasmic organisms consistent with Babesia spp. (erythrocyte) and Ehrlichia spp. (monocyte), respectively, from one dog, while a complete blood count indicated a regenerative anaemia (n = 1; 12.5%), non-regenerative anaemia (n = 4; 50%), neutrophilia (n = 3; 37.5%), lymphocytosis (n = 2; 25%), thrombocytopaenia (n = 3; 37.5%) and pancytopaenia (n = 1; 12.5%). DNA isolated from the eight blood samples and 20 ticks (16 Rhipicephalus sanguineus and 4 Amblyomma ovale) were subjected to conventional PCR and next-generation sequencing of the 16S rRNA and 18S rRNA gene for Anaplasma/Ehrlichia and Babesia/Theileria/Hepatozoon, respectively. The DNA of Ehrlichia spp., closely related to Ehrlichia canis, was detected in the blood of three dogs (37.5%), Anaplasma spp., closely related to Anaplasma marginale, in two (25%), Babesia vogeli in one dog (12.5%) and seven ticks (35%) and Hepatozoon canis and Anaplasma spp., in one tick (5%), respectively. These findings highlight the need to test both the vector and host for the presence of tick-borne pathogens when undertaking diagnostic investigations. Further studies are also warranted to elucidate the susceptibility of canids to Anaplasma marginale.
RESUMEN
Background: There are few reports of tick-borne pathogens infecting dogs living in indigenous communities of Brazil. Herein, we aimed to molecularly detect vector-borne pathogens in dogs from two indigenous communities in the Brazilian Amazon. Materials and Methods: We surveyed 327 dogs raised in Amazon region at 2 distinct indigenous ethnicities for the molecular detection of tick-borne pathogens (114 from Tapirapé and 213 from Karajá indigenous ethnicity). Whole blood samples were subjected to PCR and sequencing for Ehrlichia, Babesia, and Hepatozoon. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to investigate the factors affecting the pathogen infection patterns in dogs. Results: Among the 327 blood samples, 40 were positive for Ehrlichia canis (12.2%), 2 for Anaplasma platys (0.61%), and 204 were positive for Hepatozoon canis (66.5%). Binary Logistic Regression showed association between E. canis infection and ethnicity (p = 0.010) and tick attachment (p = 0.041). Karajá dogs were 3.4 times (95% CI 1.3-8.5) more likely to be positive for E. canis than Tapirapé dogs. Dogs with ticks were 2.5 times more likely (95% CI 1.0-7.6) to be positive for E. canis than dogs without ticks. Conclusions: Our survey expands the knowledge regarding the presence of vector-borne pathogens in dogs from indigenous communities in the Amazon region.
Asunto(s)
Enfermedades de los Perros , Ehrlichiosis , Enfermedades por Picaduras de Garrapatas , Garrapatas , Perros , Animales , Enfermedades por Picaduras de Garrapatas/epidemiología , Enfermedades por Picaduras de Garrapatas/veterinaria , Brasil/epidemiología , Ehrlichia/genética , Anaplasma/genética , Ehrlichia canis/genética , Enfermedades de los Perros/epidemiología , Ehrlichiosis/epidemiología , Ehrlichiosis/veterinariaRESUMEN
RESUMEN Los microorganismos hemotrópicos en felinos son agentes infecciosos que varían desde nematodos, protozoos y bacterias. El presente estudio retrospectivo tiene como objetivo evaluar la frecuencia de agentes hemotrópicos mediante qPCR de las bases de datos de 1.418 felinos en Medellín entre julio de 2021 y marzo de 2022, periodo en el que se evidencia una frecuencia del 70%, con un número de animales infectados con uno, dos o tres agentes del 56%, 14%, y 2,3%, respectivamente. La frecuencia para cada uno de los agentes es: Rickettsia spp. 0,21%, Babesia spp. 0,35%, Ehrlichia spp. 0,49%, Dirolifaria spp. 0,64%, Anaplasma spp 0,7%, Hepatozoon spp. 5,4%, Mycoplasma spp. 24,4% y Bartonella spp. 37,9%. Las coinfecciones evidenciadas de dos agentes hemotrópicos son: Bartonella spp. y Mycoplasma spp. 7,9%, Bartonella spp. y Hepatozoon spp. 2,1%, Mycoplasma spp. y Hepatozoon spp. 2% y Ehrlichia spp. y Anaplasma spp. 0,5%. De los 15 hemogramas de felinos infectados, 11 de ellos tienen hemogramas sin alteraciones significativas. Dos de los felinos positivos evidencian anemia moderada y severa y reticu-locitos de 0,9% y 0,4%, respectivamente. Solo un individuo positivo para Mycoplasma spp. presenta trombocitopenia y tres plaquetas en limites inferiores. Se concluye que la PCR es la prueba más confiable para el diagnóstico de agentes hemotrópicos.
ABSTRACT Hemotropic microorganisms in felines are infectious agents that vary from nematodes, protozoa, and bacteria. The objective of this retrospective study is to evaluate the frequency of hemotropic agents by means of qPCR from the databases of 1,418 felines in the city of Medellín between July 2021 and March 2022, where a frequency of 70% is evidenced, with several infected animals, with one, two, or three agents of 56%, 14%, and 2.3%, respectively. With a frequency for each of the agents of: Rickettsia spp. 0.21%, Babesia spp. 0.35%, Ehrlichia spp. 0.49%, Dirolifaria spp. 0.64%, Anaplasma spp. 0.7%, Hepatozoon spp. 5.4%, Mycoplasma spp. 24.4%, and Bartonella spp. 37.9% The evidenced coinfections of two hemotropic agents is: Bartonella spp. and Mycoplasma spp. 7.9%, Bartonella spp. and Hepatozoon spp. 2.1%, Mycoplasma spp. and Hepatozoon spp. 2% and Ehrlichia spp. and Anaplasma spp. 0.5%. Of the 15 blood counts from infected cats, 11 of them had blood counts without significant changes. Two of the positive cats show moderate and severe anemia, and reticulocytes of 0.9% and 0.4%, respectively. Only one individual positive for Mycoplasma spp. presented thrombocytopenia, and three platelets in lower limits. It is concluded that PCR is the most reliable test for the diagnosis of hemotropic agents.
RESUMEN
Opossums are synanthropic marsupials able to interchange among wild, periurban and urban environments, playing an epidemiologically important role as hosts for emerging pathogens and ectoparasites of relevance in public health. The present study aimed to detect and molecularly characterize vector-borne agents in a population of common opossums (Didelphis marsupialis) from the Island of São Luís do Maranhão, northeastern Brazil. Of the 45 animals analyzed, one (2.22%) was positive in the nested PCR assay based on the 18S rRNA gene of piroplasmids. The obtained sequence was phylogenetically positioned in a clade containing sequences of Babesia sp. previously detected in Didelphis aurita, Didelphis albiventris and associated ticks from Brazil. Eight (17.77%) samples were positive in PCR for Ehrlichia spp. based on the dsb gene; four samples were sequenced and positioned into a new clade, sister to E. minasensis and Ehrlichia sp. clade detected in Superorder Xenarthra mammals. No samples tested positive in the screening PCR assays based on the 16S rRNA gene of Anaplasma spp. Two samples were positive in the qPCR for Bartonella spp. based on the nuoG gene. Seven animals (15.56%) were positive in the nPCR based on the 16S rRNA gene of hemoplasmas. Of these, three were positive in a PCR based on the 23S rRNA gene. The phylogenies based on both 16S rRNA and 23S rRNA genes corroborated to each other and positioned the sequences in the same clade of hemoplasmas previously detected in D. aurita and D. albiventris sampled in Brazil. Finally, three (6.66%) animals were positive in the PCR for Hepatozoon spp.; the obtained 18S rRNA sequence was positioned into the H. felis clade.The present study showed, for the first time, the circulation of piroplasmids, Hepatozoon spp., Ehrlichia spp., hemoplasmas and Bartonella spp. in D. marsupialis sampled in northeastern Brazil, with description of putative novel genotypes of Ehrlichia and Hepatozoon and copositivity by different vector-borne agents. The present work consolidates the "South American Marsupialia" piroplasmid clade, adding one more genotype of Babesia sp. to this clade.
Asunto(s)
Babesia , Bartonella , Didelphis , Garrapatas , Animales , Brasil/epidemiología , ARN Ribosómico 16S/genética , Garrapatas/parasitología , Anaplasma/genética , Ehrlichia/genética , Babesia/genética , Bartonella/genética , MamíferosRESUMEN
The aim of this work is to report the first detection of Procyon cancrivorus naturally co-infected with Hepatozoon sp. cf. H. procyonis and a novel Anaplasma strain from South America and potential vector tick species associated. On August 30, 2016, a specimen of P. cancrivorus was found dead on the route in Chaco province, Argentina. A tick and a blood sample by cardiac puncture was collected from the specimen. DNA was extracted from blood sample and the tick was morphological identity as a female of Amblyomma ovale. Molecular detection of Anaplasmataceae family and Hepatozoon spp. agents was performed targeting two different loci: 16 S rRNA and 18 S rRNA gene. The phylogenetic analyses show that the Anaplasma sp. strain detected in P. cancrivorus in this study is similar to Anaplasma sp. strains previously detected in Nasua nasua and A. ovale from Brazil. Furthermore, Hepatozoon sp. of the H. procyonis group was amplified that is phylogenetically closely related to H. procyonis reported in N. nasua from Brazil. Since it was not exactly the same as the latter, it was decided to name at Hepatozoon sp. cf. H. procyonis. It is possible that, this potential new species of Anaplasma would be specific for Procyonidae family and there are two species of Hepatozoon linked to this family in South America. These results added to other published studies suggest that A. ovale could be a potential vector both for the new potential strain of Anaplasma and for the Hepatazoon sp. of the H. procyonis group.
Asunto(s)
Anaplasmataceae , Apicomplexa , Carnívoros , Procyonidae , Garrapatas , Femenino , Animales , Mapaches , Anaplasma/genética , Rickettsiales , Argentina , Filogenia , BrasilRESUMEN
Dentre as hemoparasitoses com maior frequência de transmissão por carrapatos pode-se destacar a Erliquiose, a Hepatozoonose, a Anaplasmose e a Babesiose. A coinfecção por esses agentes são frequentes na rotina clínica; no entanto, poucas são as descrições sobre a ocorrência simultânea desses agentes em hemogramas. Sendo assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi relatar os casos de quatro cães diagnosticados com coinfecção por Ehrlichia spp. e Hepatozoon canis, os quais foram atendidos no Hospital Veterinário Adílio Santos de Azevedo (HV-ASA) do Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia da Paraíba (IFPB), campus Sousa. Durante a avaliação clínica, relatou-se que os pacientes apresentavam, de maneira em comum, oligodipsia e hiporexia, além de histórico de presença de carrapatos. Em seguida, foram realizados hemogramas, que revelaram que todos os animais apresentavam anemia leve a moderada. Além disso, notou-se que o animal 1 estava com trombocitopenia e os animais 2 e 3, neutrofilia. Na pesquisa de hemoparasitas em esfregaço sanguíneo, observou-se coinfecção por H. canis e E. spp. nos quatro animais. Desta forma, este relato demonstrou a importância do uso do hemograma e da pesquisa dos agentes causadores das hemoparasitoses, através do esfregaço sanguíneo. Ressalte-se que o esfregaço sanguíneo, embora seja um método inespecífico e de baixa sensibilidade, pode e deve ser adotado como rotina, por ser uma técnica simples, rápida, barata, pouco invasiva e de diagnóstico definitivo.
Among the hemoparasitoses with the highest frequency of transmission by ticks, ehrlichiosis, hepatozoonosis, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis may be highlighted. The coinfection with these agents is frequent in clinical routine; however, there are few descriptions of the simultaneous occurrence of these agents in blood counts. Therefore, this work aimed to report the cases of four dogs diagnosed with Ehrlichia spp. and Hepatozoon canis, which were treated at the Adílio Santos de Azevedo Veterinary Hospital (HV-ASA), of the Federal Institute of Education, Science, and Technology of Paraíba (IFPB), Sousa campus. During the clinical evaluation, it was reported that the patients had oligodipsia and hyporexia in common, in addition to a history of tick presence. Then, blood counts were performed, which revealed that all animals had mild to moderate anemia. In addition, it was noted that animal 1 had thrombocytopenia and animals 2 and 3 had neutrophilia. In the investigation of hemoparasites in blood smears, co-infection with H. canis and E. spp. was observed in the four animals. Thus, this report demonstrated the importance of using the blood count and researching the causative agents of hemoparasitosis, through the blood smear. It should be noted that the blood smear, although it is a non-specific and low-sensitivity method, can and should be adopted as a routine, as it is a simple, fast, inexpensive, minimally invasive, and definitive diagnostic technique.
Asunto(s)
Animales , Perros , Ehrlichia canis/patogenicidad , Enfermedades de los Perros , Coinfección/veterinaria , Pruebas Hematológicas/veterinaria , Zona SemiáridaRESUMEN
PURPOSE: Brazilian anurans are considered the most diverse and species rich around the world. Although in recent years there has been a strong focus on research related to this group of animals, their parasites have not received the same attention. Thus, this study aimed to provide morphological and molecular data on haemogregarines biodiversity infecting Brazilian anurans. METHODS: During 2020, 116 anurans were collected from four Brazilian States and their blood and fragment of organs were screened for haemogregarine parasites. RESULTS: From the total, seven (6.03%) animals were found infected with species of Hepatozoon and Dactylosoma. Based on the morphological and molecular analysis, four anurans were found infected with Hepatozoon latrensis. The phylogenetic analysis has shown the isolates from this study grouping with the Brazilian anuran Hepatozoon clade, also with gene similarity ranging from 99.70 to 100% to H. latrensis isolates available on GenBank. Furthermore, three specimens (Trachycephalus typhonius, Leptodactylus latrans, and Rhinella diptycha) were infected with the same species of Dactylosoma (100% genetic similarity), with a genetic similarity of 98.56% to Dactylosoma piperis the only other species described in Brazil. In support of the molecular data, different morphological characters were observed in the blood smears as compared to D. piperis, suggesting that the species of Dactylosoma from the present study infecting three different species of Brazilian anurans is an undescribed species. CONCLUSION: Thus, this study increases the knowledge of Brazilian anuran blood parasites and demonstrates the importance of using integrative approaches for the diagnosis of haemoparasites.
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Apicomplexa , Eucoccidiida , Parásitos , Animales , Brasil , Filogenia , Apicomplexa/genética , Anuros/parasitologíaRESUMEN
The black-eared opossum (Didelphis aurita) is a South American synanthropic marsupial. The presence of opossums in domestic spaces is relevant in the One-Health context since they are hosts of pathogens and ectoparasites that may affect the health of domestic animals and humans. In this study, we aim to determine the occurrence of hemoplasmas and selected tick-borne pathogens in free-ranging black-eared opossums, along with their molecular characterization, hematological and biochemical evaluation and factors associated with infection, in the municipality of Viçosa, State of Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil. Thirty black-eared opossums were trapped between March 2021 and June 2022. Ectoparasites were collected. Hematological and biochemical analyses were performed. DNA from EDTA-blood samples were analyzed by PCR and qPCR assays. By molecular analyses, 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemoalbiventris' was the most prevalent hemoparasite (73.3%), followed by Hepatozoon sp. (22.2%). Significant differences were observed in the number of platelets, and in the concentration of protein and globulins in the animals infected by 'Ca. M. haemoalbiventris' when compared with the negative group. This is the first report of 'Ca. M. haemoalbiventris' infection in D. aurita.
RESUMEN
Canine vector-borne pathogens (CVBPs) comprise a group of disease agents mainly transmitted by ticks, fleas, mosquitoes and sand flies. In this study, we assessed the presence of CVBPs in an Afro-descendent community (Quilombola) of northeastern, Brazil. Dog blood samples (n = 201) were collected and analyzed by rapid test for the detection of antibodies against Leishmania spp., Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp. and Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.), and antigens of Dirofilaria immitis. In addition, polymerase chain reactions were performed for Anaplasmataceae, Babesia spp., Hepatozoon spp., Rickettsia spp. and B. burgdorferi s.l. Overall, 66.7% of the dogs scored positive to at least one pathogen at serological and/or molecular methods. Antibodies against Ehrlichia spp. were the most frequently detected (57.2%; n = 115/201), followed by Anaplasma spp. (8.5%; n = 17/201), Leishmania spp. (8.5%; n = 17/201) and B. burgdorferi s.l. (0.5%; n = 1/201). For D. immitis, 11 out of 201 (5.5%) animals scored positive. At the molecular analysis, 10.4% (n = 21/201) of the samples scored positive for Babesia spp./Hepatozoon spp., followed by Anaplasmataceae (5.0%; n = 10/201) and Rickettsia spp. (3.0%; n = 6/201). All samples were negative for B. burgdorferi s.l. Our data demonstrated the presence of CVBPs in the studied population, with a high seropositivity for Ehrlichia spp. In addition, considering the detection of zoonotic pathogens in dogs and their relationship with people from Quilombola communities, effective control strategies are advocated for minimizing the risk of infection in this socially vulnerable human population and their pets.
Asunto(s)
Babesia , Dirofilaria immitis , Enfermedades de los Perros , Ehrlichiosis , Eucoccidiida , Rickettsia , Anaplasma , Animales , Babesia/genética , Brasil/epidemiología , Perros , Ehrlichia , Ehrlichiosis/veterinaria , Humanos , Mosquitos Vectores , Rickettsia/genéticaRESUMEN
White-eared opossums (Didelphis albiventris) are well adapted to anthropized areas. The increased contact with domestic animals and humans mediates the transmission of arthropod-borne pathogens. Despite the worldwide occurrence of tick-borne Anaplasmataceae and Hepatozoidae species in a variety of vertebrates, few studies reported serological evidence or molecular detection of theses agentes in marsupials. Up to now, while Ehrlichia/Anaplasma spp. have only been detected in marsupials from Brazil, Hepatozoon spp. have been reported in marsupials from Chile, Australia and Brazil. The present work aimed to investigate, using molecular techniques and blood smear analysis, the presence of Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., and Hepatozoon sp. in the blood and ticks collected from D. albiventris in urban forest fragments from midwestern Brazil. Between May and December 2017, 43 D. albiventris (27 males and 16 females) were captured for blood and tick collection in the city of Campo Grande, state of Mato Grosso do Sul, midwestern Brazil. Ticks (46 Amblyomma dubitatum nymphs and 24 Amblyomma spp. larvae) were collected from 14 out 43 (32.5%) of the white-eared opossums. Panoptic-stained blood smears were performed using peripheral blood (tail tip) of the captured opossums. DNA extracted from blood and tick samples were subjected to PCR/qPCR assays for Anaplasmataceae agents (rrs, gltA, groEL, sodB, and dsb genes, and 23S-5S intergenic region) and Hepatozoon spp. (18S rRNA gene), followed by Sanger sequencing, BLASTn and phylogenetic analyses. An inclusion resembling Ehrlichia morulae was found in a white-eared opossum's monocyte from a blood smear stained with Panoptic. Five (11.63% [5/43]) white-eared opossums' blood samples and 7 (25% [7/28]) tick samples (2 pools of Amblyomma spp. larvae and 5 pools of A. dubitatum nymphs) were positive for Anaplasmataceae via a PCR assay targeting the conserved rrs gene. Phylogenetic analysis based on the rrs gene positioned three sequences obtained from opossums and ticks together as a subclade within the Ehrlichia canis clade. However, all samples were negative in a qPCR assay specific for E. canis based on the dsb gene. Phylogenetic analyses positioned the gltA and 23S-5S ITS sequences obtained from opossums' blood samples in a separate clade from the other validated Ehrlichia species. One (2.3% [1/43]) opossum blood sample was positive for the 18S rRNA gene of Hepatozoon sp. The phylogenetic analysis positioned the Hepatozoon sp. sequence obtained from a D. albiventris specimen in a clade with a sequence previously detected in a black storm petrel (Oceanodroma melania) from Mexico. All the other sequences of Hepatozoon sp. previously detected in marsupials from Brazil were positioned in a separated clade. The present work showed the occurrence of putative novel genotypes of Ehrlichia sp. and Hepatozoon sp. in white-eared opossums and associated A. dubitatum ticks from midwestern Brazil.
RESUMEN
Background: Bacteria of the Anaplasmataceae family and canine hemoparasitic protozoans transmitted by ticks are common in Colombia due to circulation and biological adaptation of vector Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.). Objective: To detect the circulation of Ehrlichia canis and Hepatozoon canis in sheltered dogs in three municipalities in southern Aburrá Valley, province of Antioquia, Colombia. Methods: Primers were used to amplify the 16S rRNA associated with the Anaplasmataceae family, dsb for Ehrlichia sp. and 18S rRNA for Hepatozoon sp. Results: Of the 357 samples of venous blood obtained, representing all the sheltered dogs in the study zone, Ehrlichia canis DNA was detected in 2.2% of individuals, showing identity of 100% with previous sequences from the GenBank. Hepatozoon canis showed 8.7% (31/357) prevalence of infection, with 100% identity to genotypes from Japan, Brazil, and Spain. Only one sequence of H. canis exhibited a phylogenic divergence concerning H. canis previously reported in Brazil and the Old World. Conclusions: This study confirms the circulation of E. canis and H. canis in asymptomatic shelter dogs in the south-central zone of the Aburrá Valley, province of Antioquia, Colombia. The present study is the first molecular detection of H. canis in the Province of Antioquia and the third report of canine hepatozoonosis from Colombia, highlighting the importance of considering this agent in veterinary clinic.
Antecedentes: Los agentes patógenos transmitidos por garrapatas, tales como las bacterias de la familia Anaplasmataceae y los protozoos hemoparasitarios caninos, son comunes en Colombia debido a la circulación y la adaptación biológica del vector Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.). Objetivo: Detectar la circulación de Ehrlichia canis y Hepatozoon canis en perros protegidos en tres municipios del sur del Valle de Aburrá, departamento de Antioquia, Colombia. Métodos: Se usaron cebadores para amplificar el gen 16S rRNA asociado con la familia Anaplasmataceae y el gen dsb para Ehrlichia sp. y el 18S rRNA para Hepatozoon sp. Resultados: De las 357 muestras de sangre venosa obtenidas, que representan a todos los perros de albergues en la zona de estudio, 2,2% fueron positivas para Ehrlichia canis, con 100% de identidad con secuencias anteriores publicadas en todo el mundo. Hepatozoon canis mostró una prevalencia de infección del 8,7% (31/357), con una identidad del 100% con genotipos de Japón, Brasil y España. Solo una secuencia de H. canis exhibió divergencia filogénica en relación con H. canis previamente reportada en Brasil y el Viejo Mundo. Conclusiones: Este estudio confirma la circulación de E. canis y H. canis en perros asintomáticos de albergues en la zona centro-sur del Valle de Aburrá, departamento de Antioquia, Colombia. El presente estudio es la primera detección molecular en el Departamento de Antioquia y el tercer reporte de hepatozoonosis canina de Colombia destacando la importancia de considerar este agente en la clínica veterinaria.
Antecedentes: Agentes patogênicos transmitidos por carrapatos, como bactérias da família Anaplasmataceae e protozoários hemoparasitários caninos, são comuns na Colômbia devido à circulação e adaptação biológica do vetor Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.). Objetivo: Detectar Ehrlichia canis e Hepatozoon canis em cães abrigados em três municípios do sul do vale de Aburrá, departamento de Antioquia, Colômbia. Métodos: Os primers foram utilizados para amplificar o rRNA 16S associado à família Anaplasmataceae, o dsb para Ehrlichia sp. e o rRNA 18S para Hepatozoon sp. Resultados: Das 357 amostras de sangue venoso obtidas, representando todos os cães abrigados na zona de estudo, 2,2% foram positivas para Ehrlichia canis, com 100% de identidade com sequências anteriores publicadas em todo o mundo. Hepatozoon canis mostrou uma prevalência de infecção de 8,7% (31/357), com 100% de identidade com genótipos do Japão, Brasil e Espanha. Apenas uma sequência de H. canis apresentou divergência filogênica em relação a H. canis previamente relatados no Brasil e no Velho Mundo. Conclusões: Este estudo confirma a circulação de E. canis e H. canis em cães de abrigo assintomáticos na zona centro-sul do vale de Aburrá, departamento de Antioquia, Colômbia. O presente estudo é a primeira detecção molecular no Departamento de Antioquia e o terceiro relato de hepatozoonose canina na Colômbia, destacando a importância de considerar este agente na clínica veterinária.
RESUMEN
Small mammals play an essential role as disseminators of pathogens because they reach high population densities and have ubiquitous distributions. In the Northern Hemisphere rodents are well recognized as reservoirs for tick-borne bacteria of the Anaplasmataceae family and also apicomplexan protozoans. In contrast, South American rodents hosting these microorganisms have been rarely identified. In this study, we collected blood from rodents and marsupials in northern Chile and screened for Anaplasmataceae bacteria and apicomplexan protozoa. Overall, 14.7% of the samples were positive for Babesia, Hepatozoon, and Sarcocystidae using conventional PCR assays targeting the structural 18S rRNA locus (18S). Phylogenetic analyses performed with amplicons derived from 18S and cytochrome c oxidase (COI) gene provided evidence of a Babesia sp. belonging to the Babesia microti group in Phyllotis darwini, and a novel Babesia genotype in P. darwini and Abrothrix jelskii. Furthermore, four novel genotypes of Hepatozoon retrieved from Abrothrix olivacea, P. darwini, and Oligoryzomys longicaudatus, formed independent lineages within a clade that includes additional Hepatozoon spp. detected in South American rodents. Moreover, an incidental finding of a previously detected apicomplexan, herein designated as Sarcocystidae sp., was recorded in Thylamys opossums with a high prevalence, indicating a possible specific association with these mammals. Phylogenetic analysis of Sarcoystidae sp. clearly demonstrated its relatedness to apicomplexans detected in Australian marsupials. Our results expand the range of mammals hosting tick-borne apicomplexans in South America, highlight a novel clade consisting of South American babesias, and report for the first time the B. microti group infecting rodents in the region.
Asunto(s)
Babesia microti , Babesiosis , Animales , Australia , Babesia microti/genética , Babesiosis/epidemiología , Babesiosis/parasitología , Chile/epidemiología , Mamíferos , Filogenia , Roedores/parasitologíaRESUMEN
Even though the epidemiology of tick-borne agents (TBA) in dogs has been extensively investigated around the world, the occurrence, vectors involved, and molecular identity of these agents in cats remains elusive in many regions. Among TBA, Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Babesia, Cytauxzoon, and Hepatozoon are responsible for diseases with non-specific clinical signs in cats, making essential the use of molecular techniques for accurate diagnosis and proper treatment. The present work aimed to investigate the occurrence and molecular identity of tick-borne agents (Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Babesia/Theileria, Cytauxzoon, and Hepatozoon) in cats from southeastern (states of São Paulo (SP) and Minas Gerais (MG)) and northern (state of Rondônia (RO)) Brazil. For this purpose, 390 blood samples were collected from domiciled cats in MG (n = 155), SP (n = 151), and RO(n = 84) states, submitted to DNA extraction and PCR assays for Ehrlichia spp. (dsb gene), Anaplasma spp. (rrs gene), piroplasmids (18S rRNA gene), and Hepatozoon spp. (18S rRNA gene), sequencing, and phylogenetic inferences. The overall positivity for Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp., Babesia/Theileria spp., Cytauxzoon spp., and Hepatozoon spp. were 7.4% (12.3% (MG) and 6.6% (SP)), 2% (4.5% (MG) and 0.6% (SP)), 0.7% (0.6% (MG), 0.6% (SP) and 1.2% (RO)), 27.2% (41.9% (MG), 24.5% (SP) and 4.8% (RO), and 0%, respectively. The phylogenetic analysis grouped the obtained sequences with 'Candidatus Anaplasma amazonensis', A. platys, B. vogeli, and Cytauxzoon sp. previously detected in wild felids from Brazil. qPCR specific for E. canis based on the dsb gene confirmed the molecular identity of the detected ehrlichial agent. The present study expanded the list and geographical distribution of hemoparasites in cats. 'Candidatus Anaplasma amazonensis', recently detected in sloths from northern Brazil, was described for the first time in cats. This is the first report of piroplasmids infecting cats in northern Brazil. Coinfection by Cytauxzoon and other TBA (Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, and B. vogeli) reported in the present study raises the need for veterinary practitioners' awareness of cats parasitized by multiple TBA.
RESUMEN
PURPOSE: Hepatozoonosis and piroplasmosis are diseases caused by apicomplexan protozoa that affect different types of animals, including mammals. The present study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of Hepatozoon spp. and piroplasms in wild mammals kept in captivity in rehabilitation centers in the states of Minas Gerais and Goiás, Brazil. METHODS: For this, blood samples from 152 animals were collected and analyzed by conventional optical microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In addition, positive PCR samples were submitted to sequencing for molecular characterization of the specimens found. RESULTS: Microscopic analysis revealed 53 of the 152 animals (28.3%) parasitized by piroplasms. No Hepatozoon sp. was observed. On the other hand, using the primers HepF300/HepR900 and Piro1F/Piro5R, both amplifying fragments of the 18S rDNA gene, eight animals (5.2%) were positive for Hepatozoon spp. and 40 (26.3%) for piroplasms. From the sequencing of the positive samples Hepatozoon canis, Hepatozoon felis, Theileria cervi, Theileria equi and Cytauxzoon felis were identified. In addition to the aforementioned hemoparasites, some animals were found parasitized by microfilaria. Such data ratify the presence of hemoparasites in captive wild animals, and are unprecedented in the two geographical regions covered by the present study. 19.7% of mammals harbored ectoparasites of the genera Amblyomma and Rhipicephalus. CONCLUSION: Wild mammals are infected by several pathogens that can also infect domestic animals, some of them potentially zoonotic which can directly contribute to mortality and species reduction. Therefore, a deep understanding of the parasites, the hosts and the diseases is extremely necessary so that prevention, control and treatment measures are effectively applied.
Asunto(s)
Coccidiosis , Eucoccidiida , Animales , Brasil/epidemiología , Gatos , Coccidiosis/epidemiología , Coccidiosis/parasitología , Coccidiosis/veterinaria , Eucoccidiida/genética , Mamíferos , Filogenia , Centros de RehabilitaciónRESUMEN
As doenças transmitidas por carrapatos são afecções de grande importância na clínica médica de pequenos animais, devido à alta casuística e ampla distribuição vetorial no território brasileiro. Os principais agentes responsáveis pelas infecções em cães são Babesia sp., Ehrlichia canis e Hepatozoon canis. Os animais infectados são assintomáticos ou apresentam sinais clínicos inespecíficos, sendo necessário a utilização de testes diagnósticos para definição do agente etiológico, e diagnóstico seguro. O objetivo do presente estudo foi determinar a ocorrência desses micro-organismos em cães naturalmente infectados, domiciliados nos municípios de Vila Velha e Anchieta, Espírito Santo, utilizando diferentes testes de detecção: Reação em cadeia polimerase (PCR), sorologia para detecção de anticorpos anti Ehrlichia canis e pesquisa de hematozoários em esfregaço sanguíneo. Foram analisadas 65 amostras de sangue obtidas por venopunção da veia cefálica. No teste de PCR, 4,62% dos animais foram positivos para Babesia vogeli e 1,54% para Ehrlichia canis sendo os resultados para Hepatozoon canis negativos. No teste sorológico para E. canis 90,77% dos animais foram positivos para a presença de anticorpos, e na pesquisa em lâminas de esfregaço sanguíneo 3,02% apresentavam outros hemoparasitas. Os resultados indicam a dispersão desses hemoparasitas na população canina da região de estudo, entretanto com baixa ocorrência. O teste de PCR demonstrou-se como o mais sensível no qual Babesia vogeli foi o agente mais observado.
Tick-borne diseases are of great importance in the medical practice of small animals, due to the high casuistry and wide vectorial distribution in the Brazilian territory. The main agents responsible for infections in dogs are Babesia sp., Ehrlichia canis and Hepatozoon canis. Infected animals are asymptomatic or present nonspecific clinical signs, requiring the use of diagnostic tests to define the etiologic agent, and safe diagnosis. The objective of the present study was to determine the occurrence of these microorganisms in naturally infected dogs domiciled in the municipalities of Vila Velha and Anchieta, Espírito Santo, using different detection tests: polymerase chain reaction (PCR), serology to detect antibodies against Ehrlichia canis and research of hematozoa in blood smears. Sixty-five blood samples obtained by venipuncture of the cephalic vein were analyzed. In the PCR test, 4.62% of the animals were positive for Babesia vogeli and 1.54% for Ehrlichia canis, and the results for Hepatozoon canis were negative. In the serological test for E. canis, 90.77% of the animals were positive for the presence of antibodies, and in there search in blood smear slides, 3.02% presented other hemoparasites. The results indicate the dispersion of these hemoparasites in the canine population of the study region, however with low occurrence. The PCR test proved to be the most sensitive, in which Babesia vogeli was the most observed agent.
Las enfermedades transmitidas por garrapatas son enfermedades de gran importancia en la práctica médica de los pequeños animales, debido a la alta casuística y amplia distribución vectorial en el territorio brasileño. Los principales agentes responsables de las infecciones en los perros son Babesia sp., Ehrlichia canis y Hepatozoon canis. Los animales infectados son asintomáticos o presentan signos clínicos inespecíficos, siendo necesario el uso de pruebas diagnósticas para la definición del agente etiológico, y el diagnóstico seguro. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la ocurrencia de estos microorganismos en perros infectados naturalmente, domiciliados en los municipios de Vila Velha y Anchieta, Espírito Santo, utilizando diferentes pruebas de detección: reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR), serología para detectar anticuerpos anti Ehrlichia canis e investigación de hematozoos en frotis de sangre. Se analizaron sesenta y cinco muestras de sangre obtenidas por venopunción de la vena cefálica. En la prueba PCR, el 4,62% de los animales fueron positivos para Babesia vogeliyel 1,54% paraEhrlichia canis, y los resultados para Hepatozoon canis fueron negativos. En la prueba serológica para E. canis, el 90,77% de los animales fueron positivos a la presencia de anticuerpos, y en la investigación en láminas de frotis de sangre el 3,02% presentaron otros hemoparásitos. Los resultados indican la dispersión de estos hemoparásitos en la población canina de la región de estudio, aunque con una baja presencia. La prueba PCR resultó ser la más sensible, en la que Babesia vogeli fue el agente más observado.
Asunto(s)
Animales , Perros , Infecciones Protozoarias en Animales/epidemiología , Babesiosis/epidemiología , Ehrlichiosis/epidemiología , Enfermedades por Picaduras de Garrapatas/veterinaria , Enfermedades por Picaduras de Garrapatas/epidemiología , Babesia/aislamiento & purificación , Brasil/epidemiología , Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa/veterinaria , Ehrlichia canis/aislamiento & purificaciónRESUMEN
As doenças transmitidas por carrapatos são afecções de grande importância na clínica médica de pequenos animais, devido à alta casuística e ampla distribuição vetorial no território brasileiro. Os principais agentes responsáveis pelas infecções em cães são Babesia sp., Ehrlichia canis e Hepatozoon canis. Os animais infectados são assintomáticos ou apresentam sinais clínicos inespecíficos, sendo necessário a utilização de testes diagnósticos para definição do agente etiológico, e diagnóstico seguro. O objetivo do presente estudo foi determinar a ocorrência desses micro-organismos em cães naturalmente infectados, domiciliados nos municípios de Vila Velha e Anchieta, Espírito Santo, utilizando diferentes testes de detecção: Reação em cadeia polimerase (PCR), sorologia para detecção de anticorpos anti Ehrlichia canis e pesquisa de hematozoários em esfregaço sanguíneo. Foram analisadas 65 amostras de sangue obtidas por venopunção de veia cefálica de cães. No teste de PCR, 4,62% dos animais foram positivos para Babesia vogeli e 1,54% para Ehrlichia canis sendo os resultados para Hepatozoon canis negativos. No teste sorológico para E. canis 90,77% dos animais foram positivos para a presença de anticorpos, e na pesquisa em lâminas de esfregaço sanguíneo 3,02% apresentavam outros hemoparasitas. Os resultados indicam a dispersão desses hemoparasitas na população canina da região de estudo, entretanto com baixa ocorrência. O teste de PCR demonstrou-se como o mais sensível no qual Babesia vogeli foi o agente mais observado.(AU)
Tick-borne diseases are diseases of great importance in the medical practice of small animals, due to the high casuistry and wide vectorial distribution in the Brazilian territory. The main agents responsible for infections in dogs are Babesia sp., Ehrlichia canis and Hepatozoon canis. Infected animals are asymptomatic or present nonspecific clinical signs, requiring the use of diagnostic tests to define the etiologic agent, and safe diagnosis. The objective of the present study was to determine the occurrence of these microorganisms in naturally infected dogs domiciled in the municipalities of Vila Velha and Anchieta, Espírito Santo, using different detection tests: polymerase chain reaction (PCR), serology to detect antibodies against Ehrlichia canis and research of hematozoa in blood smears. Sixty-five blood samples obtained by venipuncture of the cephalic vein of dogs were analyzed. In the PCR test, 4.62% of the animals were positive for Babesia vogeli and 1.54% for Ehrlichia canis, and the results for Hepatozoon canis were negative. In the serological test for E. canis, 90.77% of the animals were positive for the presence of antibodies, and in the research in blood smear slides, 3.02% presented other hemoparasites. The results indicate the dispersion of these hemoparasites in the canine population of the study region, however with low occurrence. The PCR test proved to be the most sensitive, in which Babesia vogeli was the most observed agent.(AU)
Las enfermedades transmitidas por garrapatas son enfermedades de gran importancia en la práctica médica de los pequeños animales, debido a la alta casuística y amplia distribución vectorial en el territorio brasileño. Los principales agentes responsables de las infecciones en los perros son Babesia sp., Ehrlichia canis y Hepatozoon canis. Los animales infectados son asintomáticos o presentan signos clínicos inespecíficos, siendo necesario el uso de pruebas diagnósticas para la definición del agente etiológico, y el diagnóstico seguro. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la ocurrencia de estos microorganismos en perros infectados naturalmente, domiciliados en los municipios de Vila Velha y Anchieta, Espírito Santo, utilizando diferentes pruebas de detección: reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR), serología para detectar anticuerpos anti Ehrlichia canis e investigación de hematozoos en frotis de sangre. Se analizaron sesenta y cinco muestras de sangre obtenidas por venopunción de la vena cefálica de los perros. En la prueba PCR, el 4,62% de los animales fueron positivos para Babesia vogeli y el 1,54% para Ehrlichia canis, y los resultados para Hepatozoon canis fueron negativos. En la prueba serológica para E. canis, el 90,77% de los animales fueron positivos a la presencia de anticuerpos, y en la investigación en láminas de frotis de sangre el 3,02% presentaron otros hemoparásitos. Los resultados indican la dispersión de estos hemoparásitos en la población canina de la región de estudio, aunque con una baja presencia. La prueba PCR resultó ser la más sensible, en la que Babesia vogeli fue el agente más observado.(AU)