Canine leishmaniosis: serology, electrophoresis and LeishVet stages
5-year-old Podenco living in the countryside in the Madrid region, with periocular exfoliative dermatitis, onychogryphosis, weight loss and lymphadenomegaly. Blood pressure is normal.
| Parameter | Result | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Leishmania IFAT | 1/1,280 | Positive ≥ 1/80 |
| Albumin | 2.1 g/dL | 2.6–4.0 |
| Globulins (polyclonal gamma) | 6.4 g/dL | 2.5–4.5 |
| Creatinine | 1.2 mg/dL | 0.5–1.4 |
| UPCR | 2.4 | < 0.5 |
| PCV | 31 % | 37–55 |
According to the LeishVet classification, what stage is this dog in?
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A. Stage I (mild disease)
Stage I covers dogs with mild signs (e.g. lymphadenomegaly or papular dermatitis), negative or low serology and normal laboratory results, without proteinuria.
B. Stage II (moderate disease)
In stage II there are laboratory abnormalities such as mild anaemia or hyperglobulinaemia, but renal function is normal or IRIS 1 with UPCR < 1. This dog has a UPCR of 2.4.
C. Stage IV (very severe disease)
Stage IV is reserved for nephrotic syndrome (UPCR > 5) or IRIS 3–4 kidney disease, or complications such as thromboembolism. Creatinine is normal and UPCR is 2.4.
D. Stage III (severe disease)
Correct. Clinical signs, high titre, hyperglobulinaemia and proteinuria with IRIS 1 and UPCR between 1 and 5 place the dog in stage III. Proteinuria from immune-mediated glomerulonephritis is what determines the prognosis.
lightbulb Key takeaway
In leishmaniosis serology must be quantitative: a high titre (several times the cut-off) with compatible signs is diagnostic, while a low titre requires confirmation (cytology, PCR). Always stage with creatinine, UPCR and blood pressure, and repeat electrophoresis and UPCR to assess treatment response.
References: LeishVet guidelines (Solano-Gallego et al., 2011)
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.