Modern diagnostic methods for Lyme disease in dogs

The article addressed the issue of diagnosing Lyme disease in dogs. The study aimed to analyse the effectiveness of contemporary diagnostic methods for Lyme disease in dog populations. A review of the literature was conducted, examining studies that explored various diagnostic approaches. Based on the literature analysis, a classification of diagnostic methods was developed. This classification encompassed general diagnostic methods – including molecular, serological, and bacterioscopic techniques – as well as the application of nanotechnologies for diagnosing the causative agent of this disease (Borrelia burgdorferi) in Ixodes ticks (Ixodes ricinus, I. hexagonus, and I. persulcatus). The general diagnostic methods for Lyme disease in dogs also include several advanced high-precision techniques. These molecular methods comprise polymerase chain reaction, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and polymerase chain reaction dissociation. Serological methods include enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunofluorescent assay, and immunoblotting. Bacterioscopic methods involve cultural techniques, immunohistochemical analysis, and microfluidics. Among the nanotechnologies, complete analysis microsystems and electrochemical methods were identified. Tick diagnosis for Lyme disease includes techniques aimed at detecting the presence of pathogens, specifically Borrelia species, within the tick itself. The analysis of diagnostic methods provided their characteristics and highlighted promising approaches for identifying Lyme disease in dogs. Among these, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunofluorescent assay yielded the best results due to their cost-effectiveness and rapid output, requiring minimal pathological material obtained at various stages of the disease. It was established that one of the most promising diagnostic tools for Lyme disease in dogs is the use of biomarkers. Notable examples include protein markers of inflammation, cytokines, chemokines, and genetic biomarkers. The findings from the literature analysis of diagnostic methods for Lyme disease in dogs will be valuable for veterinary practitioners involved in the treatment of vector borne diseases