Serological detection of Leptospira interrogans serovar Wolffi and clinical management of a crab-eating raccoon (Procyon cancrivorus) from the Brazilian Cerrado

Abstract

Abstract The crab-eating raccoon (Procyon cancrivorus) is a widely distributed South American mesocarnivore that frequently inhabits human-modified landscapes, where it may play a role in the transmission of zoonotic pathogens. Leptospirosis is an important but underreported disease in free-ranging wildlife, particularly in South America. This report describes the clinical management of a free-ranging crab-eating raccoon rescued after a road accident in southeastern Brazil, presenting systemic, hepatic, renal, and neurological alterations. Given the epidemiological context and compatible clinical findings, serological testing for Leptospira spp. was performed using the microscopic agglutination test, which revealed a titer of 1:200 for serovar Wolffi. Although the titer was relatively low, it was interpreted as clinically relevant when integrated with laboratory abnormalities and clinical signs, supporting initiation of antimicrobial therapy. The animal received doxycycline and comprehensive supportive care, including analgesia, hepatoprotective treatment, nutritional support via esophageal tube, and management of neurological signs. Progressive clinical and laboratory improvement was observed, allowing tube removal after 10 days and transfer to rehabilitation. No recurrence of clinical signs was noted during a 60-day follow-up. This case highlights the importance of integrating serology, clinical evaluation, and epidemiology for the diagnosis of leptospirosis in wildlife and underscores the relevance of P. cancrivorus to One Health surveillance.