Serosurvey and Enzymatic Evaluation of Canine Hepatitis B in Herding Dogs

Abstract

For our knowledge, this is the first study targeted serological detection of canine hepatitis among herding (stock) dogs in Iraq using the technique of indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Association between infection and hematology, liver enzymes, antioxidants and lipid peroxides, and demographic risk factors (age and sex) was evaluated, also. In total, 27 (14.67%) of the 184 dogs selected randomly from many rural, sub-urban, and urban areas during July (2020) to January (2021), were confirmed as seropositives for the presence of anti canine adenovirus-2 antibodies. Among seropositive dogs, the findings of demographic risk factors revealed a significant increase in values of rural and sub-urban compared to urban region, and in > 1- ≤ 3 years more than > 6-12 months, ≤ 6 months, and > 3 years age groups; however, no significant differences were detected between seropositive females and males. In comparison to seronegatives, the concentrations of ALT, AST, GGT, and TB of seropositives were showed a significant elevation whereas TP was decreased significantly. For antioxidants and lipid peroxides, significant decrease in levels of CAT, GPx, and SOD with significant increase in MDA were reported in seropositive dogs. In conclusion, there is an obvious prevalence of canine hepatitis among herding dogs in study areas in Iraq; however, furthermore studies are required to support our findings. Additionally, ELISA can be used as a rapid diagnostic tool in detection the prevalence of infection.