Frequência de resultados positivos para Toxoplasma gondii em exames sorológicos realizados em cães e gatos na Região Metropolitana de Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brasil

Abstract

Toxoplasmosis, caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, has high seroprevalence in humans and animals worldwide. The serological profile of infection in domestic animals, such as dogs and cats, is indicative of the environmental contamination by the parasite and the potential risk to humans. In this study, we evaluated the frequency of positive results for T. gondii in serological tests performed in dogs and cats in the metropolitan region of Vitória, state of Espírito Santo. Serum samples from 378 dogs and 79 cats from Centers for Zoonosis Control (CCZ) and temporary shelters were analyzed, as well as epidemiological data on municipality, origin, sex, breed and age of each animal. Immunoglobulin class IgG anti-T. gondii were evaluated by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and Indirect Immunofluorescent Antibody Test (IFAT). The frequency of antibodies in dogs was 39.4% (149/378) by ELISA and 38.1% (142/373) by IFAT, and in cats was 15.2% (12/79) by ELISA and 7.6% (6/79) by IFAT. Factors associated with canine infection were stray origin and equal to or higher than a year old. Positive serology by ELISA was related to the sex of cats, with females showing higher chance of infection. The evaluation of the results of the dogs revealed excellent agreement between techniques (κ = 0.82), with no statistically significant differences (p = 0.377). Among the cats, despite agreement between both tests (κ = 0.63), there was differences according to statistical analysis (p = 0.041). The results demonstrate high contamination of the environment by the parasite, suggesting high level risk of human infection and other animals. This is the first study to determine frequency of antibodies anti-T. gondii in dogs and cats in Espírito Santo.