Influence of Clinical Status and Parasite Load on Erythropoiesis and Leucopoiesis in Dogs Naturally Infected with Leishmania (Leishmania) chagasi
2011

Impact of Leishmania Infection on Blood Cell Production in Dogs

Sample size: 187 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Trópia de Abreu Raquel, Carvalho Maria das Graças, Carneiro Cláudia Martins, Giunchetti Rodolfo Cordeiro, Teixeira-Carvalho Andréa, Martins-Filho Olindo Assis, Coura-Vital Wendel, Corrêa-Oliveira Rodrigo, Reis Alexandre Barbosa

Primary Institution: Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto

Hypothesis

The study aims to evaluate changes in blood cell production in dogs infected with Leishmania chagasi based on their clinical status and parasite load.

Conclusion

The assessment of bone marrow can provide useful prognostic information for canine visceral leishmaniasis.

Supporting Evidence

  • Dogs with higher parasite loads showed more significant changes in blood cell production.
  • Bone marrow analysis can help predict the severity of canine visceral leishmaniasis.
  • Different clinical statuses in dogs corresponded to varying levels of parasite density.

Takeaway

Dogs infected with a parasite called Leishmania can have problems making blood cells, and how sick they are can change how many parasites are in their bodies.

Methodology

The study involved bone marrow aspirates from 187 dogs, which were analyzed for blood cell production and parasite density.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in selection of dogs based on clinical status.

Limitations

The study may not account for all variables affecting blood cell production in dogs.

Participant Demographics

Mixed-breed adult dogs, aged 2 to 6 years, with 93 males and 94 females.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p ≤ 0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0018873

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