VIDAL, I. F.; VIDAL, Ivana Fernandes.
Abstract:
In chapter one, we aim to to know the epidemiological situation of D. immitis in
dogs in the metropolitan region of João Pessoa, Paraíba. In chapter two, we sought to
identify the possible culicids responsible for maintaining the disease cycle in this area.
Furthermore, in chapter three, we aimed to describe the effects of a new treatment
protocol consisting of ivermectin combined with of doxycycline. 301 dogs were tested
for the presence of dirofilariasis by Knott method and the ELISA test. The prevalence
was 0.33%. For searching the vector, we used CDC light traps, Castro grabbers and
larvitraps. The collection was made peridomiciliary of the infected dog. 322 specimens
of adult culicidae samples were collected from ten different species and 543 immature
forms of S. (S) albopictus. It was observed that S. (S). albopicta and Oc. scapularis had
the highest frequency. Therefore, either of these two species considered may perform the
transmission, since they are already known as vectors of D. immitis. The treatment was
performed on a SRD male dog and naturally infected by D. immits. The drugs were used
isolated (ivermectin and doxycycline). The pacient was evaluated by performing
haematological, biochemical analysis, cardiac biomarkers and image exams and serologic
tests and parasitological. The first thirty days of treatment with ivermectin, the animal
became amicrofilaremic. The serum levels of CK-MB and cTnI showed pulmonary but
not cardiomyocyte damage. On thorax radiographic examination was observed by VHS
method cardiac measurement of 10.7 cm. In doppler echocardiography, we found
pulmonary valve insuficienty. Tomography were performed at eighteen months showed
lung fields with diffuse increase of radiographic attenuation degree with diffuse
interstitial pattern. Eighteen months after starting treatment the ELISA test still showed a
slight reaction, further indicating the presence of antigens. Observing the treatments
results, we considered that this constitutes a secure protocol, however, an even longer
period of treatment is necessary so that all antigens are eliminated.