ALTERAÇÕES HISTOLÓGICAS OCULARES ASSOCIADAS A LEISHMANIOSE VISCERAL CANINA.

This study aimed to evaluate the immuno-inflammatory changes and structural in the eye of dogs naturally infected by Leishmania infantum. Ten mongrel adult dogs of both sexes, varied age and weight were used. The animals were selected by Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA), enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with titers ≥ 1:40 considered seropositive, and the presence of ocular lesions. Animals were euthanized and samples of the right eye were collected by surgical procedure, stored in formalin and submitted to classical histology procedure (H & E). Data were expressed as a percentage. The major changes observed were keratoconjunctivitis (90%), periocular ulceration (80%), uveitis (60%), blepharitis (50%) and swelling (30%). We conclude that ophthalmic alterations can be considered characteristic findings in canine visceral leishmaniasis, which is very an important assessment to assist in differential diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]