ABSTRACT Colombian pork production has increased over the years; however, given the socioeconomic conditions of the country, people who are related to these farms can acquire zoonotic pathogens and develop disease. To identify the risk factors associated with the transmission of zoonotic diseases, a review of the literature was carried out following the steps of a «scoping review»; by searching for scientific articles in the MEDLINE, Web of Science and SciELO databases, applying DeCS terms. In total, 31 documents met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. For the transmission of zoonotic diseases from pig farming to humans, the risk factors described were: poor hygiene habits of workers, inadequate handling of animal and human excreta, and the presence of pests on farms such as rodents, among others; however, the information related to this type of pathology is scarce, so it is necessary to continue with the development of additional studies that allow identifying new risk factors and deepen the existing ones to prevent their presentation.

RESUMEN La producción porcícola colombiana ha incrementado con el transcurso de los años; sin embargo, dadas las condiciones socioeconómicas del país, las personas que tienen relación con las granjas pueden adquirir patógenos zoonóticos y desarrollar enfermedad. Con el fin de identificar los factores de riesgo asociados a la transmisión de enfermedades zoonóticas se realizó una revisión de la literatura siguiendo los pasos de una «scoping review»; mediante la búsqueda de artículos científicos en las bases de datos MEDLINE, Web of Science y SciELO, aplicando términos DeCS. En total, 31 documentos cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión y fueron analizados. Para la transmisión de enfermedades zoonóticas desde los cerdos hacia los humanos, los factores de riesgo descritos fueron: deficientes hábitos higiénicos de los trabajadores, inadecuado manejo de las excretas de animales y humanos y la presencia de plagas en las granjas como roedores, entre otras; sin embargo, la información relacionada con este tipo de patologías es escasa, por lo que es necesario continuar con el desarrollo de estudios adicionales que permitan identificar nuevos factores de riesgo y profundizar en los ya existentes para prevenir su presenta ción.

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to determine the presence of fungal pathogens from dermatological lesions of large and small animal species in veterinary clinics and animal shelters in Bogotá, Colombia. From a total of 30 canines, 15 felines and 2 equines, skin scraping samples (31) and otic (26) and skin (44) swabs were obtained, which were analysed by direct examination, culture and identification at the species level. Microsporum canis and Malassezia spp were mainly identified. According to the animal species, M. canis (21.4%) predominated in felines and Malassezia pachydermatis (32.1%) in canines. According to the type of sample, a higher frequency of M. canis was detected in skin scraping (21.4%) and Malassezia spp in ear swabbing (21.4%).

RESUMEN El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la presencia de patógenos fúngicos a partir de lesiones dermatológicas en grandes y pequeñas especies animales, en clínicas veterinarias y refugios animales de Bogotá, Colombia. De un total de 30 caninos, 15 felinos y 2 equinos se obtuvieron muestras de raspado de piel (31) e hisopados óticos (26) y de piel (44), que fueron analizadas mediante examen directo, cultivo e identificación a nivel de especie. Se determinó la presencia de Microsporum canis y Malassezia spp. Según la especie animal, predominaron M. canis (21.4%) en felinos y Malassezia pachydermatis (32.1%) en caninos. Según el tipo de muestra, se detectó mayor frecuencia de M. canis en raspado de piel (21.4%) y Malassezia spp en hisopado ótico (21.4%).

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to determine the presence of antibodies against rotavirus in pig sera obtained from semi-technical farms in Cundinamarca, Colombia. For this, 170 samples from various age groups were processed, using the Porcine Ingezim Rotavirus (Ingenasa(r)) diagnostic ELISA kit. The presence of antibodies against Rotavirus was detected in 78.82% of the samples. It is concluded that the animals may have been in contact with the virus at some point in their production cycle, which suggests the need for improvements in the control and prevention of infection.

RESUMEN El objetivo del presente trabajo fue determinar la presencia de anticuerpos frente a rotavirus en sueros de porcinos obtenidos de granjas semitecnificadas de Cundinamarca, Colombia. Se procesaron 170 muestras de varios grupos etarios, utilizando el estuche de ELISA para diagnóstico Ingezim Rotavirus Porcino (Ingenasa(r)). Se detectó la presencia de anticuerpos frente a Rotavirus en el 78.82% de las muestras. Se concluye que los animales pudieron haber estado en contacto con el virus en algún momento de su ciclo productivo, lo que sugiere la necesidad de mejoras en el control y prevención de la infección.

Resumen Antecedentes: Las levaduras del género Malassezia hacen parte de la microbiota normal cutánea de humanos y animales. En equinos se han reportado diferentes especies de Malassezia aisladas de varias regiones de piel y canal auditivo externo. Objetivo: Aislar, caracterizar e identificar las especies del género Malassezia spp. a partir de canal auditivo externo y piel de equinos sin lesiones dermatológicas, remitidos a la Clínica de Grandes Animales de la Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y de Zootecnia de la Universidad Nacional de Colombia. Metodología: Se evaluaron 22 equinos, a partir de los cuales se obtuvieron 82 muestras entre hisopados de canal auditivo externo (izquierdo y derecho) y diferentes regiones de piel (prepucio, glándula mamaria e ingle). Las muestras fueron procesadas mediante examen directo y cultivo en agar Dixon modificado. A partir de los aislamientos en los que se observaron colonias morfológicamente compatibles con Malassezia spp. se realizó la identificación fenotípica y molecular. Resultados: De las 82 muestras procesadas se obtuvieron 14 aislamientos de levaduras, de las cuales mediante identificación bioquímica el 50% (n=7) correspondió a Malassezia spp., el 35,7% (n=5) a Candida spp., y el 14,3% (n=2) a Cryptococcus spp. Luego mediante pruebas moleculares se identificaron las especies del género Malassezia como: M. slooffiae (28,6%) y M . nana (57,1%); y un aislamiento correspondió a Trichosporon asahii. Conclusión: Se logró identificar las especies M.nana y M. slooffiae como microbiota normal de la piel y el canal auditivo en los equinos evaluados. La prevalencia de Malassezia spp. para la población evaluada fue de 18,2% (n=4/22).

Abstract Background: The yeasts of the genus Malassezia are considered part of the normal skin microbiota in humans and animals. In horses, several species of the genus Malassezia have been reported in different areas of the skin and ear canal. Objective: Isolate, characterize and identify the different species belonging to the genus Malassezia isolated from the ear canal and skin of equine patients with no dermatological lesions that were referred to the large animal clinic of veterinary teaching hospital at the National University of Colombia. Methods: 22 horses were evaluated and sampled. Eighty-two samples were obtained by swabbing either the ear canals (left and right), skin areas of prepuce, mammary gland and inguinal region. The samples were examined by cytological evaluation and were cultured on modified Dixon’s agar and phenotypic and molecular identification were performed for yeast colonies. Results: Fourteen yeast isolates were obtained from the 82 samples. Biochemical identification determined that 50% (n=7) were Malassezia spp., 35.7% (n=5) were identified as Candida spp. and 14.3% (n=2) as Cryptococcus spp.. Using molecular tests, the Malassezia species were M. slooffiae (28.6%) and M.nana (57.1%); only one isolate was classified as Trichosporo asahii. Conclusion: M.nana and M. slooffiae were identified as part of the normal ear canal and skin microbiota in the evaluated horses. The observed prevalence of Malassezia spp. was 18.2% (n=4/22) in this study sample.

Resumo Antecedentes: As leveduras do gênero Malassezia fazem parte da microbiota cutânea normal de humanos e animais. Em cavalos, diferentes espécies de Malassezia isoladas de várias regiões da pele e do canal auditivo externo foram reproduzidas. Objetivo: Isolar, caracterizar e identificar as espécies do gênero Malassezia spp. do canal auditivo externo e pele eqüinos sem lesões cutâneas, referiu-se à Clínica de Grandes Animais da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia da Universidade Nacional da Colômbia. Métodos: 22 equinos foram avaliadas a partir dos quais 82 amostras a partir de esfregaços do canal auditivo externo (esquerda e direita) e diferentes regiões da pele (prepúcio, glândula mamaria e virilha) foram obtidos. As amostras foram processadas por exame direto e cultura em ágar Dixon modificado. Dos isolados nos quais as colônias foram observadas morfologicamente compatíveis com Malassezia spp. identificação fenotípica e molecular foi realizada. Resultados: Das 82 amostras processadas 14 isolados de levedura, que foram obtidos por identificação bioquímica de 50% (n=7) correspondia a Malassezia spp., 35,7% (n=5) a Candida spp., e 14,3% (n=2) para Cryptococcus spp.. Em seguida, usando o teste molecular espécie Malassezia foram identificadas como M. slooffiae (28,6%) e M . nana (57,1%); e um isolamento correspondia a Trichosporon asahii. Conclusão: As espécies M.nana e M. slooffiae foram identificadas como microbiota de pele normal e do canal auditivo nos equídeos avaliados. A prevalência de Malassezia spp. para a população avaliada foi 18,2% (n=4/22).

RESUMO: Malassezia pachydermatis é uma levedura lipofílica e dependente de lipídios, principalmente da pele de animais. Sendo, por essa razão, considerada uma espécie zoofílica e causadora de otite externa em cães. Neste sentido, aspectos associados à sua epidemiologia e patogenicidade constituem um tema de interesse científico. O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar a caracterização molecular de 43 isolados de M. pachydermatis obtidos a partir de cães com otite externa. Para esta propósito, foram amplificadas, sequenciadas e analisadas com enzimas de restrição as regiões do gene 5.8S, do espaçador interno transcrito 2 (ITS2) e D1/D2 do 26S do rRNA pelo método RFLP, com as endonucleases AluI, CfOI e BstF5I. Análises filogenéticas revelaram que os isolados se agruparam com as sequências tipo I, IV e V de M. pachydermatis como já descrito anteriormente. De maneira interessante, se observou um novo RFLP polimórfico utilizando BstF5I. Os isolados que mostraram esse padrão foram associados com os padrões IV e V. No entanto, não foi observada associação entre padrões polimórficos de RFLP e atividade de fosfolipase ou dados da população canina. Estes resultados demonstram a diversidade genética de M. pachydermatis e fornecem novas perspectivas sobre a epidemiologia destas espécies na população analisada.

ABSTRACT: Malassezia pachydermatis is a lipophilic and lipid-dependent yeast mostly isolated from animals’ skin; hence, it is regarded as a zoophilic species causing otitis externa in dogs. Aspects associated with its epidemiology and pathogenicity is a matter of interest. This study aimed to conduct a molecular characterization of 43 isolates of M. pachydermatis obtained from dogs with otitis externa. For this purpose, the 5.8S internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) and D1/D2 26S rRNA regions were amplified, sequenced and analyzed using restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) with AluI, CfoI, and BstF5I endonucleases. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that these isolates grouped with the sequence types I, IV and V, previously proposed for M. pachydermatis. Interestingly, we found a new polymorphic RFLP pattern using BstF5I, these isolates were associated with the sequence types IV and V, nevertheless an association between polymorphic RFLP patterns, and fosfolipase activity or canine population data was not observed. These findings underline the genetic diversity of M. pachydermatis and provide new insights about the epidemiology of this species in the analyzed population.

RESUMO: Para determinar Salmonellaspp. prevalência/soroprevalência, padrões de resistência antimicrobiana e identificação de fatores de risco associados à sua presença em granjas suínas colombianas. Foram obtidas 504 amostras (fezes, zaragatoas e amostras do ambiente) de 21 fazendas distribuídas em quatro regiões geográficas da Colômbia. Salmonella spp., a detecção microbiológica e molecular foi determinada por 2 Salmonella spp. Ensaios MDS3M™ e MALDI-TOF MS, respectivamente. Além disso, para avaliação sorológica, foram analisadas 231 amostras de soro empregando ELISA Salmonella Pigtype® - Salmonella Ab (QUIAGEN®). Além disso, 41 isolados foram testados quanto à suscetibilidade antimicrobiana usando a técnica de microdiluição em caldo (Painel B1016-180 Beckman Coulter NC72®) e verificados com o software WHONET 2016. Os fatores de risco foram avaliados em uma pesquisa e analisados quanto à significância estatística pelo teste U Mann-Whitney. Foram determinadas prevalências de 8,9% (n=45) e 38,1% (n=88). Todos os isolados apresentaram 100% de suscetibilidade antimicrobiana à amicacina. No entanto, resistência à penicilina, tetraciclina, cefuroxima e trimetoprim/sulfametoxazol estava presente em mais de 50% das cepas avaliadas. Fatores de risco associados à Salmonella spp., presença de uso de água de superfície, superfície áspera no chão, presença de tremonhas como alimentadores e botas de trabalho. Bactérias estavam presentes em animais e amostras ambientais de fazendas avaliadas. O contato animal e/ou a exposição ao microrganismo também foram evidentes na resposta sorológica obtida. A presença de bactérias dependia de práticas de manejo e infraestrutura, assim como o uso de antibióticos suplementados na dieta pode ter induzido um aumento de Salmonella spp. resistência antimicrobiana.

ABSTRACT: To determine Salmonella spp. prevalence/seroprevalence, antimicrobial resistance patterns and risk factor identification associated with its presence in Colombian swine farms. 504 samples (Faeces, swabs and environment samples) were obtained from 21 farms distributed in four geographical regions in Colombia. Salmonella spp. microbiological and molecular detection were determined by two Salmonella spp. MDS3M™ and MALDI-TOF MS assays, respectively. In addition, for serological evaluation 231 serum samples were analyzed employing ELISA Salmonella Pigtype®-Salmonella Ab (QUIAGEN®). Additionally, 41 isolates were tested for antimicrobial susceptibility using broth microdilution technique (Panel B1016-180 Beckman Coulter NC72®) and verified with WHONET 2016 software. Risk factors were assessed from a survey and analyzed for statistical significance by U Mann-Whitney test. An 8.9% prevalence (n=45) and 38.1% (n=88) seroprevalence were determined. All isolates presented 100% antimicrobial susceptibility against amikacin. However, resistance against penicillin, tetracycline, cefuroxime and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole was present in more than 50% of evaluated strains. Risk factors associated with Salmonella spp. presence were surface water use, rough-surfaced on floors, presence of hoppers as feeders and worker’s boots. Bacteria were present in animals and environmental samples from evaluated farms. Animal contact and/or exposure with the microorganism were also evident in obtained serological response. Bacteria presence depended on management practices and infrastructure, likewise antibiotic use, supplemented in the diet may have induced an increase in Salmonella spp. antimicrobial resistance.

The aim of this study was to determine the presence of antibodies against pathogens of pigs that represent public health risk due to their zoonotic potential (Salmonella spp, Leptospira interrogans, Yersinia spp, Trichinella spp and Toxoplasma gondii) in porcine sera obtained in four semi-technified pig farms from Cundinamarca, Colombia. A total of 89 blood samples were collected and analyzed using the ELISA diagnostic kits Pigtype®Salmonella Ab, Pigtype®-Yopscreen, Pigtype®-Toxoplasma Ab and Pigtype®-Trichinella (QuiaGen®) The detection of antibodies against Leptospira spp was carried out by the microagglutination lysis test (MAT). Antibodies against Salmonella spp was observed in 40% of the samples, while for Yersinia spp and Toxoplasma gondii was in 18 and 1.1% respectively. At least one of the 13 serovars of Leptospira interrogans was detected in all four farms and none of the samples was positive for Trichinella spp. It is concluded that the pigs in the study had contact at some point of their productive cycle with most of the zoonotic pathogens evaluated, which may represent a risk to public health and pig production.

El objetivo del presente trabajo fue determinar la presencia de anticuerpos frente a patógenos de cerdos que representan riesgo en salud pública por su potencial zoonótico (Salmonella spp, Leptospira interrogans, Yersinia spp, Trichinella spp y Toxoplasma gondii) en sueros porcinos obtenidos en cuatro granjas porcícolas semi-tecnificadas de Cundinamarca, Colombia. Se colectaron 89 muestras de sangre y se analizaron utilizando los estuches de ELISA para diagnóstico Pigtype®-Salmonella Ab, Pigtype®-Yopscreen, Pigtype®-Toxoplasma Ab y Pigtype®-Trichinella (QuiaGen®). La detección de anticuerpos frente a Leptospira spp se realizó mediante la prueba de microaglutinación lisis (MAT). La presencia de anticuerpos frente a Salmonella spp se detectó en el 40% de las muestras, mientras que para Yersinia spp y Toxoplasma gondii fue en el 18 y 1.1% respectivamente. Todas las granjas fueron positivas a por lo menos uno de los 13 serovares de Leptospira interrogans y ninguna de las muestras fue positiva para Trichinella spp. Se concluye que los cerdos del estudio han tenido contacto en algún momento de su ciclo productivo con la mayoría de los patógenos zoonóticos evaluados, lo que puede representar un riesgo para la salud pública y la producción porcícola.

Resumen Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de Salmonella spp. en muestras de pechugas de pollo para consumo humano en diferentes localidades de Bogotá. Materiales y métodos: Se obtuvieron 72 muestras en tiendas y plazas de mercado de 4 localidades de la ciudad. Las muestras fueron procesadas por métodos microbiológicos y moleculares estandarizados para la detección e identificación de Salmonella spp. Resultados: La prevalencia estimada para Salmonella spp. fue del 29.2% (n=21), de las cuales el 52.4% (n=11) fueron obtenidas a partir de muestras de tiendas y el 47.6% (n=10) de las muestras de plazas de mercado. Los serovares identificados con mayor frecuencia fueron Salmonella enterica group IIIb, S. Bredeney y S. Virchow. Las localidades con mayor presencia del patógeno fueron Usaquén y Fontibón. Discusión: Estudios realizados en Colombia reportan una prevalencia del 27% para Salmonella spp. en muestras de carcasas completas, lo que coincide con lo observado en este estudio, esto podría asociarse con inadecuadas condiciones de manejo y/o almacenamiento del producto. Conclusión: Se determinó la presencia de Salmonella spp. en las muestras de pechugas de pollo evaluadas, lo que implica un riesgo potencial para la salud pública, por lo que es necesario ampliar este tipo de estudios para conocer la situación real a nivel nacional frente a este patógeno.

Summary Objective: To determine the prevalence of Salmonella spp. in chicken breasts for human consumption in four different districs in Bogotá. Materials and Methods: Seventy two samples were collected from different convinience stores and market places in the city. All the samples were processed using standarized microbiological and molecular methods to isolate and identify Salmonella spp. Results: The determined prevalence of Salmonella spp. was 29.2% (n=21), out of vwhich 52.4% (n=11) were obtained from convinience stores and 47.6% (n=10) from market places. The identified serovars were Salmonella enterica group IIIb, S. Bredeney and S. Virchow. The districs with highest prevalence of the pathogen were Usaqén and Fontibón Discussion: Previous studies done in Colombia have reported prevalence of Salmonella spp. around 27% in chicken carcasses, this is very similar to the prevalence observed in this study; these findings could be due to inadequate handling and storage practices of the product. Conclusion: The presence of Salmonella spp. was determined in the studied samples; this finding indicates the potential public health risk. These results demand further studies in countrywide base to determine the actual situation of this pathogen.

The genus Fusarium is widely recognized for its phytopathogenic capacity. However, it has been reported as an opportunistic pathogen in immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients. Thus, it can be considered a microorganism of interest in pathogenicity studies on different hosts. Therefore, this work evaluated the pathogenicity of Fusarium spp. isolates from different origins in plants and animals (murine hosts). Twelve isolates of Fusarium spp. from plants, animal superficial mycoses, and human superficial and systemic mycoses were inoculated in tomato, passion fruit and carnation plants, and in immunocompetent and immunosuppressed BALB/c mice. Pathogenicity tests in plants did not show all the symptoms associated with vascular wilt in the three plant models; however, colonization and necrosis of the vascular bundles, regardless of the species and origin of the isolates, showed the infective potential of Fusarium spp. in different plant species. Moreover, the pathogenicity tests in the murine model revealed behavioral changes. It was noteworthy that only five isolates (different origin and species) caused mortality. Additionally, it was observed that all isolates infected and colonized different organs, regardless of the species and origin of the isolates or host immune status. In contrast, the superficial inoculation test showed no evidence of epidermal injury or colonization. The observed results in plant and murine models suggest the pathogenic potential of Fusarium spp. isolates in different types of hosts. However, further studies on pathogenicity are needed to confirm the multihost capacity of this genus.

El género Fusarium es ampliamente conocido por su capacidad fitopatógena, típicamente asociada al marchitamiento vascular. Sin embargo, se ha reportado como un patógeno oportunista en pacientes inmunocompetentes e inmunocomprometidos, por lo que puede ser considerado como un microorganismo de interés en estudios de patogenicidad en diferentes hospederos. Este trabajo evaluó la capacidad patogénica de aislamientos de Fusarium spp. de diferentes orígenes en hospederos vegetales y en un hospedero animal (modelo murino). Doce aislamientos de Fusarium spp. de origen vegetal, animal superficial, humano superficial y humano sistémico fueron inoculados en plantas de tomate, gulupa y clavel, y en ratones BALB/c, inmunocompetentes e inmunosuprimidos. Las pruebas de patogenicidad en plantas no mostraron todos los síntomas asociados al marchitamiento vascular en los tres modelos vegetales, pero la colonización y la necrosis de los haces vasculares observada en todos los casos, independientemente de la especie de Fusarium y el origen del aislamiento, demostró el potencial infeccioso de Fusarium spp. en las diferentes especies de plantas. Por otro lado, las pruebas de patogenicidad en el modelo murino evidenciaron alteraciones del comportamiento. Asimismo, se observó en el modelo murino que todos los aislamientos infectaron y colonizaron diferentes órganos, independientemente de su origen, de la especie o del estado inmunitario del hospedero, pero solamente cinco (de diferente origen y correspondientes a diferentes especies) generaron mortalidad. En contraste, la prueba de inoculación superficial no evidenció lesiones ni colonización. Los resultados observados indican el potencial papel patogénico de los aislamientos de Fusarium spp. en los diferentes tipos de hospederos. Sin embargo, es necesario profundizar en estudios de factores de patogenicidad que expliquen la capacidad de este género para colonizar múltiples hospederos.

Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de Salmonella spp. en muestras de huevos para consumo humano en localidades de Bogotá. Materiales y métodos: Se obtuvieron 96 muestras en tiendas y plazas de mercado de 4 localidades de la ciudad. Se procesó de forma separada la cáscara y el contenido interno mediante métodos microbiológicos y moleculares para aislamiento e identificación Salmonella spp. Resultados: Se determinó una prevalencia total de Salmonella spp. de 9,4% (n=9), de ésta el 55% (n = 5) provenían del contenido interno y 44% (n = 4) de cáscara, sin embargo no se logró tipificar el serovar de Salmonella enterica presente. Las localidades con mayor presencia del patógeno fueron Usaquén y Fontibón. Discusión: Estudios realizados en Colombia evidencian bajas prevalencias de Salmonella spp. (0 -1,74%) en muestras de huevos, sin embargo los hallazgos de este estudio evidencian una mayor recuperación, lo que podría asociarse con inadecuadas condiciones de manejo y/o almacenamiento del producto. Conclusión: Se estableció la presencia de Salmonella spp. en las muestras de huevo evaluadas, lo que implica un riesgo potencial para la salud pública, por lo que es necesario ampliar este tipo de estudios para conocer la situación real a nivel nacional frente a este patógeno.

Abstract Objective: To determine the prevalence of Salmonella spp presence in eggs for human consumption in urban areas in Bogota. Materials and methods: 96 samples were collected from convenience stores and markets in 4 urban areas in the city. The eggshells were separated from the egg's internal content and both were processed separately using microbiological and molecular techniques to isolate and identify Salmonella spp. strains. Results: A Salmonella spp. prevalence of 9.4% (n=9) was found. Salmonella spp was isolated from the egg's internal content in 55% (n=5) of samples and 44% (n=4) from the eggshells. The Salmonella enterica serovar could not be identified. The pathogen was more frequently isolate in samples from Usaquén and Fontibón urban areas. Discussion: Studies of Salmonella spp. prevalence in eggs done in Colombia have shown it to be low (0-1.74%); However, this study determined a higher prevalence. These results suggest that inadequate handling/storage conditions could have been associated with them. Conclusion: Salmonella spp. was isolated from the egg samples from 4 different urban areas in Bogotá. These findings suggest the existence of a public health risk; therefore, there is a need to perform wider and more complete studies to determine the actual situation of Salmonella ssp. egg contamination in the country.

Malassezia and Candida yeasts are considered part of the normal skin and mucosal microbiota in humans and other animals; however, there have been few studies on the pig’s ear canal microbiota. The aim of this study was to identify the yeast microbiota isolated from swabs of porcine ear canal. Primary isolation from 25 samples (16 and 9 pigs with and without brownish serous secretion) in Dixon and Sabouraud medium. Macroscopic and microscopic morphological features were described. Besides, biochemical, physiological and molecular tests were performed to identify the isolated yeasts. Fifty-five isolates were recovered and the molecular identification showed the presence of M. sympodialis (42.8%), M. slooffiae (28.6%), M. furfur (18.4%) and M. pachydermatis (8.2%).

Las levaduras de los géneros Malassezia y Candida forman parte de la microbiota normal en piel y mucosas de humanos y otros animales; sin embargo, han sido poco estudiadas en el canal auditivo porcino. El objetivo del presente estudio fue identificar la microbiota levaduriforme aislada a partir de hisopados del canal auditivo porcino. Se realizaron aislamientos primarios de 25 muestras (16 y 9 cerdos con y sin secreción serosa marrón,respectivamente)enAgar Dixon yAgar Sabouraud con cloranfenicol. Sedescribieron las características morfológicas macroscópicas y microscópicas de las colonias obtenidas; además, se realizaron pruebas bioquímicas, fisiológicas y moleculares para su identificación. Se recuperaron 55 aislados, cuya identificación molecular evidenció la presencia de M. sympodialis (42.8%), M. slooffiae (28.6%), M. furfur (18.4%) y M. pachydermatis (8.2%).

RESUMEN Objetivo . Caracterizar e identificar levaduras del género Malassezia, mediante características fenotípicas. Materiales y métodos . Inicialmente se describieron las características morfológicas macroscópicas y microscópicas, adicionalmente se realizaron pruebas bioquímicas y fisiológicas como Tween y Cremophor, entre otras. Resultados . De 105 aislamientos de caninos diagnosticados previamente con otitis, 46 fueron caracterizados hasta especie, así: El 36.19% (n=38) correspondió a M. pachydermatis, el 7.2% (n=8) a M. furfur; y 56.19% (n=59) restante fueron reportados como Malassezia spp., debido a los patrones fenotípicos atípicos que presentaron, y que podrían corresponder a variantes de M. furfur y/o M. pachydermatis. Conclusión. Estos resultados enfatizan la necesidad de hacer una caracterización a nivel de especie y/o genotipos mediante marcadores moleculares que permitan una identificación más precisa de los aislamientos. Con el presente estudio, se contribuye al conocimiento de las diferentes especies involucradas en patologías óticas en caninos.

ABSTRACT Objective . To characterize and identify yeasts of the genus Malassezia by phenotypic features. Materials and methods. First, the macroscopic and microscopic morphological characteristics were described. In addition we performed biochemical and physiological assays as Tweens and Cremophor, including more. Results. Our results evidenced of 105 isolates obtained from dogs diagnosed with external otitis, it was possible to identify two distinct species from 46 isolates within the Malassezia genus: 36.19% (n=38) were identified as M. pachydermatis and 7.62% (n=8) as M. furfur. According to phenotypic patterns the remaining 56.19% (n=59) were reported as Malassezia spp., possibly corresponding to M. furfur and/or M. pachydermatis. Conclusions. Results emphasize the necessity to characterize according to species. It is not feasible to define Malassezia by species based on morphological, biochemical, and physiological findings. Therefore, molecular genotyping should be performed to identify markers allowing a more precise isolate identification. This would broaden our epidemiological knowledge regarding different species involved in canine otitis pathologies.

The ectoparasites significantly affect the health status of the animals due to their toxic and allergic effects that cause a detriment in their welfare and additionally may have a negative effect on feed conversion rates in farm animals. Ectoparasites can affect animals of all species and ages, being the young animals the most susceptible. The importance of a proper diagnosis of these health problems is given not only by the discomfort they generate in their hosts, but by the fact that they can transmit other pathogens. The aim of this paper was to describe some morphological characteristics of specific ectoparasites that have veterinary importance, especially under the prevailing environmental conditions in Colombia

Los ectoparásitos afectan de manera importante el estado sanitario de los animales debido a que sus efectos exfoliatrices, tóxicos y alérgicos causan un detrimento en su bienestar y, adicionalmente, pueden tener un efecto negativo en los índices de conversión alimenticia en animales de producción. Las ectoparasitosis pueden afectar animales de todas las especies y edades; sin embargo, los jóvenes son los más susceptibles. La importancia de un adecuado diagnóstico de estos problemas sanitarios está dada no solo por la incomodidad que generan en sus hospederos, sino por la posibilidad que tienen de transmitir otros agentes patógenos. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue presentar imágenes donde se describen algunas características morfológicas de determinados ectoparásitos de interés en Medicina Veterinaria, especialmente bajo las condiciones de Colombia

Objetivo. Determinar la concordancia entre el cultivo microbiológico y la citología ótica para el diagnóstico de otitis externa causada por Malassezia spp. en caninos. Materiales y Métodos. Se analizaron 158 muestras de hisopados de caninos con diagnóstico clínico de otitis externa, todas las muestras fueron analizadas mediante citología, cultivo micológico y pruebas metabólicas. Resultados. Se obtuvo una positividad mediante citología del 62% y por cultivo del 75.3%. El 31.1% de los aislamientos fueron identificados como M. pachydermatis, el 12.6% como M. furfur y un 56.3% se clasificó como Malassezia spp., dado que bioquímicamente no fue posible hallar su especie. Se determinó una concordancia observada entre técnicas positivas para Malassezia spp. de 0.76 con índice Kappa de 0.448 IC 95% (0.30 - 0.60) lo que representa una fuerza de concordancia moderada entre las dos técnicas, sin tener en cuenta la especie identificada. Conclusiones. El uso de una prueba diagnóstica no es suficiente para establecer la participación de Malassezia pachydermatis como agente causal de enfermedad.

Objective. To determine the correlation between microbiological culture and otic cytology for diagnoses of external otitis by Malassezia in dogs. Materials and Methods. 158 ear swabs of dogs with clinical diagnosis of external otitis were analyzed by cytology, mycological culture and metabolic tests. Results. Were obtained a positive results by cytology of 62% and 75.3% by culture. The 31.1% of isolates were identified as M. pachydermatis, 12.6% as M. furfur and 56.3% were classified as Malassezia spp., because was not possible to define the species. We found a positive concordance between cytology and culture for Malassezia spp., of 0.76 with a kappa index of 0.448 (95% CI 0.30 to 0.60) which represents a moderate strength of concordance between the two techniques, without regard the identified species. Conclusions. The use of a diagnostic test is not enough to establish the participation of Malassezia spp., as a causal disease agent.

O objetivo do presente estudo, foi determinar a presença de Tritrichomonas foetus em dois rebanhos leiteiros no Altiplano Cundiboyacense. De vacas com um histórico de problemas reprodutivos, foram avaliados 21 lavados uterinos de pequeno volume, em dois rebanhos leiteiros localizados nos municípios de Sibaté (Cundinamarca) e Ventaquemada (Boyacá). No primeiro rebanho, 10 vacas foram amostradas e no segundo 11, baseado em três critérios de inclusão. Os lavados uterinos foram obtidos mediante infusão de solução salina fisiológica no corpo do útero. As amostras foram centrifugadas e semeadas em meio de cultura básico para Tritrichomonas por 10-15 dias a 37 ºC. Os protozoários foram avaliados no dia da colheita de amostras e 10 e 15 dias após incubação por meio de visualização direta sob um microscópio de campo escuro. As amostras positivas foram coradas com Wright e Lugol para identificar as características morfológicas. Este estudo mostrou que T. foetus estava presente em 61,8% dos animais amostrados. A determinação de que T. foetus estava presente em 61,8% das amostras analisadas é um achado significativo, dado que nos rebanhos avaliados, esse agente não tinha sido previamente diagnosticado.

The aim of this study was to determine the presence of Tritrichomonasfoetus in two dairy herds on the Altiplano Cundiboyacense. Twenty-one low-volume uterine lavages from cows with a history of reproductive problems in two dairy herds located in the municipality of Sibaté (Cundinamarca) and Ventaquemada (Boyacá) were evaluated. In the first herd, 10 cows were sampled and in the second, 11 cows, based on three inclusion criteria. The uterine lavages were obtained through infusion of physiological saline solution into the uterine body. The samples were centrifuged and seeded in Tritrichomonas basal medium for 10-15 days at 37 ºC. The protozoa were evaluated on the day of sampling and 10 and 15 days after incubation by means of direct viewing under a dark-field microscope. Positive samples were stained with Wright and Lugol to identify the morphological characteristics. This study showed that T. foetus was present in 61.8% of the animals sampled. The determination that T. foetus was present in 61.8% of the samples analyzed is a significant finding given that in the herds evaluated, this agent had not previously been diagnosed.