Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
How vets diagnose canine babesiosis in Central Europe
By Kirtz, G et al.·Published in Tierarztliche Praxis. Ausgabe K, Kleintiere/Heimtiere·2012·Invitro GmbH·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: In-clinic laboratory diagnosis of canine babesiosis (Babesia canis canis) for veterinary practitioners in Central Europe.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of 358 dogs suspected of having babesiosis, a tick-borne disease caused by Babesia canis, were tested for this infection. Out of these, 113 dogs were confirmed to have the disease, showing symptoms like low platelet counts and anemia. The study found that certain blood tests could help veterinarians quickly diagnose babesiosis, especially during specific seasons when ticks are more active. This information can help pet owners recognize the importance of timely veterinary care if their dog shows signs of illness, especially in warmer months.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Haematological changes in dogs and climatic conditions favourable for the vector may assist in the quick in-house diagnosis of canine babesiosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Blood samples from 358 dogs suspected to have canine babesiosis were evaluated. The diagnosis was confirmed in 113 dogs by detection of Babesia canis by microscopic examination of a stained blood smear using the concentration line technique. RESULTS: Thrombocytopenia was present in all 113 dogs. Red blood cell count, packed cell volume and haemoglobin values were below the reference range in 62.8%, 61.1% and 46.0% of affected dogs, respectively. An increased reticulocyte count was apparent in five Babesia canis -positive dogs. Leukopenia, lymphopenia, neutropenia and monocytosis were present in 54.9%, 47.8%, 30.4% and 6.5% of the dogs, respectively. Evaluating haematological parameters by CART-analysis revealed a predictive model (accuracy= 93.5%) for canine babesiosis, when using the leucocyte, thrombocyte, and reticulocyte count. Climatic conditions present at the most probable time of Babesia canis- infection accounted for biseasonal occurrence. Changes of climatic factors during the year influence the vector activity and in conclusion should highlight babesiosis in the ranking of differentials for veterinarians. CONCLUSION: The results demonstrate that a tentative diagnosis of canine babesiosis can be made based on typical haematological changes. The results recorded match well with the seasonality of the tick vector and were confirmed here by the month of sample submission.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22526812/