Frequency of antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi in dogs from the metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro.

Lyme disease is a worldwide zoonosis caused by Borrelia burgdorferi (Spirochaetae) and transmitted through ticks (Ixodidae). Many species of domestic and wild animals are affected. The dog is an important reservoir in the domiciliary environment. The disease affects the joints and causes alterations in other organs. Blood serum samples from 143 dogs, living in the counties of Seropedica, Itaguai and Rio de Janeiro, were analyzed with the indirect ELISA test, to search for antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi latu sensu. Average positive results were 48.25%, 41.9% in Seropedica, 4.9% in Itaguai and 1.4% in Rio de Janeiro. The titres varied from 1:400 to 1:6400. The prevalence was lower (p < 0.05) in dogs up to one year of age than in older dogs, with significant difference. Between males and females was no statistical difference with positives titres. The result of this survey should draw attention to the occurrence of Borrelia sp in the area studied, considering the importance of Lyme disease as an emerging zoonosis.