Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Severe anemia from babesiosis in an 8-year-old maned wolf
By Phair, Kristen A et al.·Published in Journal of zoo and wildlife medicine : official publication of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians·2012·Department of Clinical Sciences, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Severe anemia caused by babesiosis in a maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus).
- Species:
- wildlife
Plain-English summary
A 8-year-old female maned wolf became very weak and lethargic over a day, showing signs like vomiting, possible blindness, and pale gums. Tests revealed she had severe anemia and a blood infection caused by a parasite called Babesia. The wolf received treatment that included medication, fluids, and a blood transfusion from her sibling, but unfortunately, she did not improve and was euthanized. This case highlights the need for better monitoring of infectious diseases in maned wolves to help protect this endangered species.
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Abstract
An 8-yr-old, captive, spayed, female maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) developed progressive lethargy and weakness over a 24-hr period. Clinical signs included vomiting, recumbency, horizontal nystagmus, possible blindness, pale icteric mucus membranes, and port-wine colored urine. A complete blood cell count revealed severe anemia (packed cell volume [PCV], 6%) and intraerythrocytic piroplasms consistent with a Babesia species. Polymerase chain reaction testing later confirmed babesiosis. The wolf was treated with imidocarb dipropionate, antibiotics, and fluid therapy. A whole-blood transfusion from a sibling maned wolf also was performed. Despite aggressive treatment, the wolf failed to improve and was euthanized. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first documented case of babesiosis in a captive maned wolf in North America. Surveillance of infectious diseases in captive and wild maned wolf populations should be expanded to include screening for Babesia species. Tick control also should be implemented to prevent and decrease transmission of the disease to this endangered species.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22448525/