On a Cercopithifilaria sp. transmitted by Rhipicephalus sanguineus: a neglected, but widespread filarioid of dogs

摘要: This study was aimed at investigating the distribution of a Cercopithifilaria sp. sensu Otranto et al., 2011 with dermal microfilariae recently identified in dog from Sicily (Italy). A large epidemiological survey conducted by examining skin samples (n = 917) and ticks 890) collected dogs different time points Italy, central Spain eastern Greece. The overall prevalence sampled animal populations 13.9% 10.5% microscopy sediments PCR on samples, respectively. Up to 21.6% 45.5% were positive microscopical examination PCR. Cumulative incidence rates ranging 7.7% estimated two sites Italy. low level agreement between diagnostic tests (microscopical PCR) recorded where processed parallel. Infestation rate as determined tick dissection (from 5.2% 16.7%) higher than that detected 0% 3.9%); infestation significantly associated out four sites. Developing larvae found morphometrically studied many 1469 single tick. Our data suggest that, addition most common species filarioids known infest (i.e., Dirofilaria immitis, repens Acanthocheilonema reconditum), should be considered due its widespread southern Europe high frequency tick-exposed dogs.