Comparison of paraffin-embedded skin biopsies from different anatomical regions as sampling methods for detection of Leishmania infection in dogs using histological, immunohistochemical and PCR methods
2006

Comparing Skin Biopsy Methods for Detecting Leishmania in Dogs

Sample size: 29 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Xavier Sílvio Coura, Hélida Monteiro de Andrade, Monte Semíramis Jamil Hadad, Ingrid Maria Chiarelli, Wanderson Geraldo Lima, Marilene Suzan Marques Michalick, Washington Luiz Tafuri, Wagner Luiz Tafuri

Primary Institution: Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais

Hypothesis

Which anatomical regions provide the best skin biopsy samples for detecting Leishmania infection in dogs?

Conclusion

PCR on ear skin is the most effective method for diagnosing canine visceral leishmaniasis.

Supporting Evidence

  • PCR showed 82.8% sensitivity, IHC 62.1%, and HE 44.8%.
  • PCR was more effective than IHC and HE for ear and nose skin samples.
  • There was good agreement between PCR and IHC for ear and abdomen samples.

Takeaway

This study looked at different skin samples from dogs to see which ones are best for finding a germ that makes them sick. It found that taking a sample from the ear and using a special test called PCR works best.

Methodology

The study compared histological, immunohistochemical, and PCR methods on skin biopsy samples from different anatomical regions of dogs.

Limitations

The sample size was not large enough to qualify for statistical significance in some comparisons.

Participant Demographics

Twenty-nine mongrel dogs of unknown age naturally infected with Leishmania.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1746-6148-2-17

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