Leishmania

Question 1

Is Leishmania notifiable or zoonotic?

Answer 1

Zoonotic

Question 2

How is Leishmania transmitted?

Answer 2

Phlebotomus spp

Female sandflies

Question 3

What is the most important species of Leishmania in Europe?

Answer 3

Leishmania infantum

Question 4

What breed is genetically predisposed to Leishmania? Which breed is resistant?

Answer 4

Boxer

Ibizan hound

Question 5

Leishmania typically affects immunosuppressed animals. What are the clinical signs?

Answer 5

Lymphadenopathy
Epistaxis
Lameness
Kidney/liver disease
Ocular signs
Intestinal signs
Skin lesions
Weakness and weight loss

Question 6

What are the main skin forms of Leishmania?

Answer 6

Exfoliative
Ulcerative
Nodular
Papular

Question 7

What may be seen on haematology in a dog with Leishmania?

Answer 7

Non-regenerative anaemia

Thrombocytopenia

Question 8

Can Leishmania be cured?

Answer 8

Rarely - often relapse after therapy

Treatment increases life expectancy and quality of life

Question 9

What is the treatment for Canine Leishmaniosis?

Answer 9

Anitmoniate meglumine or miltefosine
With allopurinol (leishmaniostatic)

Question 10

How can Leishmania be prevented?

Answer 10

Mesh nets, avoid exposure to sandflies, insect repellent e.g. permethrin
Vaccination
Domperidone