LEISHMANIASIS

Canine leishmaniasis is caused by flagellated protozoa of the genus Leishmania which are transmitted by phlebotamine sandflies.  Although in endemic areas a proportion of exposed dogs do not develop disease, in those which do the clinical disease can be severe, progressive and fatal if untreated.  Leishmaniasis is common and widespread in many tropical and sub-tropical regions including the Mediterranean basin, the Middle East and parts of America.  Leishmaniasis is zoonotic and canine leishmaniasis provides an important reservoir for human infection.  The incubation period can vary from one month to several years, infected dogs often remaining undetected.  There is no vaccine for leishmaniasis.  Pets travelling to endemic areas from Britain are at risk and may develop clinical signs many months or years after exposure. The presenting signs are non-specific but include skin lesions (alopecia, 'dandruff'), lymphadenopathy, renal failure and wasting. Any dog with appropriate signs and a history of travel should be tested for leishmaniasis.

Positive Leishmania IFAT result

TESTAPET  IFAT detects specific IgG antibodies to Leishmania sp.  Samples are reported as negative or the dilution at which they are positive.

Sample        0.5ml serum/ clotted blood.

Detection of parasites in bone marrow and/or lymph node aspirates can be done to accompany serological tests.

Sample        Fresh aspirate or fresh (un-fixed) smears.