Hematological Change in Dogs Infected by Babesia Canis From Recife/Pernambuco

Abstract

Introduction: The canine babesiosis is a disease caused by the intra-erythrocyte hematozoa Babesia canis, B. gibsoni and B. vogeli, mainly transmitted by Rhipicefalus sanguineus tick. In Brazil, the most common species is B. canis. Cases of canine babesiosis have been reported in several Brazilian states, and may cause serious damage to the health of animals. Objective: this study aims to analyze the hematological alterations of dogs treated at a veterinary clinic. Methodology: the research was retrospective, exploratory, descriptive and cross-sectional with quantitative-qualitative approach, and it was carried out at the clinic Bicho Estimado – Cordeiro, Recife-PE. Data collection was performed in the database of the Clinic laboratory, where reports of complete blood count and hematozoal examination were consulted, referring to the period from May 2012 to December 2014. Results: 716 laboratory reports were analyzed. A mean positivity of 20.11% was found for canine babesiosis, diagnosed by the blood draw technique stained by Giemsa. With regard to the hemogram, the following results were obtained: erythrocytes with an average value of 5.36 million/μL [reference value (VR)= 5,5 to 8,5] and platelets 183.5 thousand/μL (200-500 thousand/μL). Discussion: The hemogram showed the presence of anemia, with values of hemoglobin below the reference values. In the leukogram, monocytopenia and mild neutrophilia were observed. He also had thrombocytopenia and a high positivity for babesia. Conclusion: the results showed that babesiosis affects dogs of this region with a relevant frequency, causing alterations in some hematological parameters. The data indicate that the city has favorable conditions and an environment conducive to the contact of dogs with the transmitting agent, an important fact to outline future prevention, education and treatment strategies.