Occurrence of canine visceral leishmaniasis in an agricultural settlement in the State of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil

Abstract

During previous research on phlebotomine fauna in a settlement of the Brazilian National Agrarian Reform Institute (INCRA) on the Bodoquena Range, Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil, dogs were observed with clinical aspects suggestive of visceral leishmaniasis. A serological survey to leishmaniasis in 97 dogs, by indirect immunofluorescence test, showed 23 (23.7%) serum positive dogs. Samples of the parasites were identified as Leishmania (Leishmania) chagasi.

Canine visceral leishmaniasis; Leishmania (Leishmania) chagasi; Immunofluorescence; Bodoquena Range