Detection of canine visceral leishmaniasis by conjunctival swab PCR

Abstract

Introduction: Conjunctival swab PCR was evaluated as a tool to diagnose visceral leishmaniasis in dogs. Methods: Conjunctival swab PCR was compared to indirect immunofluorescence antibody test and blood PCR. Results: Indirect immunofluorescence was significantly correlated with conjunctival swab PCR (p < 0.05), but not with blood PCR (p > 0.05). In addition, conjunctival swab PCR was significantly associated with presence of clinical symptoms (p < 0.05), whereas blood PCR was associated with absence of clinical symptoms (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Results indicate that conjunctival swab PCR is useful in epidemiological surveys of canine visceral leishmaniasis.