Leishmaniasis
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Our guide has been authored by qualified veterinarians, but should not be taken as substitute for medical advice or professional veterinary consultation. If your pet displays any unusual symptoms, we strongly advise seeking guidance from a veterinarian
Understanding Leishmaniasis in dogs
Leishmaniasis is a disease caused by a unicellular parasite named Leishmania. The parasite (and the disease) are transmitted through sandfly bites. Leishmaniasis is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted to humans as well. There are several subspecies of the Leishmania parasite, and a specific one is harmful to dogs. The disease causes noticeable skin lesions and ulcers, leading to internal organ damage affecting the liver, spleen, and kidneys. Left untreated, this is a potentially life-threatening condition for both dogs and humans, meaning it must be taken seriously.
Bindi's story
Bindi’s a 3-year-old large mixed breed dog who’s neutered, vaccinated, and generally healthy. Bindi came in to the veterinary emergency clinic because of bleeding from the nostrils, which alarmed his owner very much. The vet discovered he was in slightly poor physical condition and his lymph nodes were swollen. Blood tests showed signs of anemia and a decrease in the level of platelets (which play a role in blood clotting). Another blood test was sent to the lab to detect blood parasites, and it was found that Bindi was indeed infected with the Leishmania parasite. He started treatment with several medications, but may remain a carrier of the parasite and experience more episodes in the future. He’ll have to regularly wear an anti-sandfly collar and avoid areas where there are sandflies in order to protect both himself and other dogs and humans.
Leishmaniasis's Causes: Uncovering Triggers
As we’ve mentioned, the disease is caused by a parasite, which is typically transmitted in the following ways:
- Exposure to sandflies: Dogs living in areas where sandflies are present are at a higher risk, especially during hours of darkness when sandflies are active.
- Mother-to-fetus: Infected female dogs or those carrying the parasite can transmit it to their fetuses.
- Infected blood transfusions: Receiving a blood transfusion contaminated with the parasite.
Recognizing Leishmaniasis: Signs and Symptoms
- General weakness and overall poor physical condition
- Weight loss
- Skin wounds and lesions
- Eye infections
- Limping and warm/swollen joints
- Nosebleeds
- Increased drinking and urination due to kidney damage
Leishmaniasis Diagnosis: How it's Identified
- The first suspicion can arise during the initial examination, based on clinical signs such as skin lesions, nosebleeds, enlarged lymph nodes or an enlarged spleen.
- Blood tests may indicate anemia and thrombocytopenia (a low platelet count), increased protein levels (also revealed in urine tests) or liver/kidney damage.
Specific tests for Leishmania:
- Serological tests detect antibodies in the blood or tissues
- PCR tests focused on the DNA of the parasite
- A biopsy of the skin or an internal organ (such as the liver or spleen)
Treating Leishmaniasis: Options and Approaches
The initial treatment depends on the dog’s condition. If kidney damage is revealed, hospitalization and dedicated supportive care may be required. Other complications, such as anemia, clotting issues or bleeding may also require hospitalization and a blood or plasma transfusion.
Treating the disease itself involves oral and injectable medications that target the parasite’s cell function and are administered for a duration of weeks to months. Some cases require lifelong treatment, and the dog may remain a carrier at risk of recurrent flare-ups.
Leishmaniasis: Surprising Facts
Leishmaniasis is a common disease worldwide in many regions. According to the WHO, between 700,000 and 1,000,000 new human cases are reported yearly, but it’s important to note that only a portion develop into an active disease.
Additional species of Leishmania may infect different animals. For example, one species infects rock hyraxes, and another infects rodents. Both can also infect humans.
When it comes to infecting humans, transmission does not occur directly from dog to human. When a sandfly bites an infected dog, it carries the parasite in its blood and can transmit it to other dogs and humans through bites.
Vet's Tip: Dealing with Leishmaniasis
Those of you who live or travel in areas suspected or known as habitats for sandflies should be extra careful to prevent infection for both you and your dog. Precautions include avoiding outdoor activity after dark and using insect repellent as spray for humans and collars or spot-on treatments for dogs. Make sure to choose dedicated products meant explicitly to repel sandflies.
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Latest in Research and Treatments
Cats can also be infected with Leishmania, but such cases are relatively rare, thankfully. Despite this fact, current research focuses on learning whether cats also contribute to transmitting the disease.
dogs breeds Prone to Leishmaniasis
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