CASE REPORT: EQUINE LEPTOSPIROSIS IN THE SOUTH-CENTRAL REGION OF PARANÁ, BRAZIL

Abstract

Leptospirosis is a widespread zoonotic disease that affects several animal species, including horses, and represents a significant challenge to both animal and public health. This study reports a clinical case of leptospirosis in a 10-year-old Paint Horse mare treated in Nova Laranjeiras, Paraná, Brazil. The patient exhibited clinical signs consistent with the disease, such as jaundice, fever, hemolytic anemia, and dark-colored urine. The presumptive diagnosis was based on medical history, clinical examination, and laboratory findings, including leukocytosis, hyperglobulinemia, hyperfibrinogenemia, and increased bilirubin and glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT). Confirmation was achieved through the Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT), which was reactive for Leptospira interrogans serovar Pomona. Treatment followed literature-based protocols, using streptomycin combined with clinical support, resulting in full recovery of the animal. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis, immediate treatment based on clinical suspicion, and preventive measures such as vaccination and environmental control to minimize agent dissemination and zoonotic risks. The detailed description contributes to the epidemiological understanding of equine leptospirosis and reinforces the relevance of the One Health concept in addressing this disease.