Efficacy of Amphotericin-B, Clinicopathologic Variables and Oxidative Stress Markers in three Staffordshire Bull Terrier Dogs with Visceral Leishmaniasis

Abstract

This study was aimed at evaluating the effects of Leishmania infection and AMB (amphotericin--B) treatment onhematological, biochemical and oxidative stress parameters in three Staffordshire Bull Terrier dogs with visceral leishmaniasis (VL). These dogs were presented with weight loss, weakness, and cutaneous lesions. Canine kala--azar detection kit was positive in dogs with VL. AMB was administered to cases with VL at a dose of 0.6 to 1.5 mg/kg/week for 4 months. Leishmania agents caused the liver injury due to increase in the ALT level in cases 1 and 2, decrease in erythrocyte, hemoglobin, and hematocrit level and increase in the MDA, and decrease in the GSH--Px in case 3, but Leishmania agents did not affect the kidney functions due to normal urea and creatinine level in the dogs with VL. A gradual response to the AMB treatment was observed. At the end of treatment course, cases with VL were treated clinically. It was concluded that the AMB administration for 4 months might be effective to treat VL due to no clinical recurrence for 6--month follow--up period.