Regenerative Anemia Research Articles

Contagem de reticulócitos de cães saudáveis ou anêmicos pela citometria de fluxo

Compararam-se os resultados da contagem de reticulócitos pela microscopia de luz e pelo método da citometria de fluxo em 25 cães saudáveis (controle), 60 cães com anemia regenerativa e 40 com anemia arregenerativa. Houve diferença nas contagens absolutas obtidas pela microscopia de luz e pela citometria de fluxo nos três grupos estudados. A contagem de reticulócitos foi mais alta pela citometria de fluxo que a contagem pela microscopia de luz, mostrando ser um método mais sensível, simples e seguro para a quantificação de reticulócitos.

Prevalences of various hemoplasma species among cats in the United States with possible hemoplasmosis

To determine prevalences of various hemoplasma species among cats in the United States with possible hemoplasmosis and identify risk factors for and clinicopathologic abnormalities associated with infection with each species. Cross-sectional study. Animals-310 cats with cytologic evidence of hemoplasmosis (n = 9) or acute or regenerative anemia (309). Blood samples were tested by means of a broad-spectrum conventional PCR assay for hemoplasma DNA and by means of 3 separate species-specific real-time PCR assays for DNA from "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum" (Mhm), Mycoplasma haemofelis (Mhf), and "Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis" (Mtc). Overall prevalences of Mhm, Mhf, and Mtc infection were 23.2% (72/310), 4.8% (15/310), and 6.5% (20/310), respectively. Mixed infections were detected in 20 (6.5%) cats. Cats infected with hemoplasmas were more likely to be male than were uninfected cats. Infection with FeLV or FIV was significantly associated with infection with Mhf. Compared with uninfected cats, cats infected with Mhf had higher reticulocyte counts, nucleated RBC counts, and mean corpuscular volume; cats infected with Mhm had higher mean corpuscular volume; and cats infected with Mtc had higher monocyte counts. Results supported the suggestion that these 3 hemoplasma species commonly occur among cats in the United States and that pathogenicity of the 3 species varies.

Concurrent infections with vector-borne pathogens associated with fatal anaemia in cattle: haematology and blood chemistry

An outbreak of a fatal haemolytic anaemia in a dairy herd of cattle in Switzerland was shown to be associated with infections with five vector-borne pathogens, namely Anaplasma marginale, A. phagocytophilum, Babesia bigemina, a Theileria spp belonging to the buffeli/sergenti/orientalis complex and haemotrophic Mycoplasma spp. The latter three had not been documented before this outbreak in Switzerland. To characterise the haematological and blood chemical changes in these unique cows, packed cell volume was determined in all 286 blood samples, blood smears, and complete haematology were performed from 285 and 173 blood samples, respectively, and biochemical parameters were assayed in 105 serum samples. Regenerative anaemia was the key sign of illness. Red blood cells of anaemic cattle were hypochromic and macrocytic. Anaemic animals had reduced platelet cell counts and increased total white cell counts. In addition, increased serum bilirubin, blood aspartate aminotransferase, gamma glutamyltransferase, glutamic dehydrogenase and blood urea nitrogen and decreased magnesium, calcium and albumin levels were found in anaemic cattle when compared to animals with normal packed cell volume. Most changes could not be attributed to a single infection. A. marginale seemed to be important in causing the outbreak, but co-infections may have aggravated the disease development and clinical signs. Thus, when encountering cattle with haemolytic anaemia, all of the mentioned pathogens should be included as differential diagnosis.

Alpha-thalassémie acquise révélatrice d’un syndrome myélodysplasique de type anémie réfractaire avec hémochromatose secondaire

We report the case of a 59 year old man presenting a regenerative microcytic hypochromic anaemia. The investigations revealed the presence of haemoglobin H, suggesting abnormalities in the alpha-globin chains synthesis. Alpha-thalassemia was thus suspected. The patient had no personal or familial history. The association with aniso-poïkilocytosis and a marked iron overload (ferritinemia > 1,500 microg/L) suggested a myelodysplastic syndrome, which was confirmed with a bone marrow aspiration. The pattern was consistent with the Acquired alpha-Thalassemia-Myelodysplastic Syndrome (ATMDS). About a hundred cases are listed worldwidely and collected in an international registry. The causes of ATMDS are ignored, but recent reports indicate that the ATRX gene may be implicated in the pathogenesis. ATRX is a chromatin-associated protein, involved in the transcription of several genes. The alpha globin genes could be one of the targets of the ATRX protein.

Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia in an eclectus parrot

A 2-year-old female Solomon Island eclectus parrot (Eclectus roratus) was evaluated by a veterinarian because of a 4-day history of progressive lethargy, weakness, poor appetite, and inactivity. The bird was referred to a veterinary teaching hospital for further examination. Clinicopathologic analyses revealed that the parrot had marked regenerative anemia, autoagglutination, and biliverdinuria. Small, rounded RBCs (thought to be spherocytes) were detected in blood smears. The abnormal findings met the diagnostic criteria for dogs with primary immune-mediated hemolytic anemia. However, analyses of blood samples for lead and zinc concentrations and plasma bile acids concentrations; the use of PCR assays for Chlamydophila psittaci, psittacine circovirus 1 (causative agent of beak and feather disease), and polyomavirus; and microbial culture and Gram staining of feces did not reveal a cause for the hemolytic anemia. Although administration of immunosuppressive doses of cyclosporine was initiated, there was a rapid progression of disease, which lead to death of the parrot before this treatment could be continued long-term. Lack of an identifiable underlying disease (confirmed by complete histologic examinations at necropsy) supported the diagnosis of primary immune-mediated hemolytic anemia. Primary immune-mediated hemolytic anemia has not been widely reported in psittacine birds. A comprehensive evaluation and complete histologic examination of tissues to rule out underlying disease processes are required to definitively establish a diagnosis of primary immune-mediated hemolytic anemia in parrots. Primary immune-me-diated hemolytic anemia should be considered as a differential diagnosis for regenerative anemia in a parrot.

Clinical, Hematological, and Biochemical Findings in an Outbreak of Abortion and Neonatal Mortality Associated with Trypanosoma evansi Infection in Dromedary Camels

This article presents the clinical and laboratorial findings in an outbreak of abortions and high neonatal mortality attributable to Trypanosoma evansi infection in camels. A total of 16 females were diagnosed, 2 of which showed moderate signs of chronic form, particularly hyporexia and intolerance to exercise. The main laboratorial findings were regenerative anemia (hemolytic anemia), lymphocytic and monocytic leukocytosis, hyperproteinemia, hyperglobulinemia, hypoglycemia, serum urea increased, and serum iron decreased. The most characteristic finding in the examined females would be the uremia, probably due to the higher protein metabolism.

Purpura thrombotique thrombocytopénique acquis auto-immun chez l'enfant : à propos d'1 cas

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), when accompanied by regenerative anaemia with schizocytosis, thrombopenia and neurological manifestations, is a disease whose main characteristic is the absence of the von Willebrand factor (vWF) cleaving protease. The two types of TTP are distinguishable by the presence or absence of antiprotease inhibitors, which are, respectively, either acquired or constitutional. The acquired autoimmune form is most frequently observed in adults. Observation An adolescent with a previous history of moderate, isolated thrombopenia first showed symptoms of TTP at the age of 14. Positive antiprotease inhibitors in combination with a degeneration of protease activity confirmed the diagnosis of acquired autoimmune TTP. A treatment consisting of daily plasma exchange led to rapid improvement; however, a failed attempt to space out plasma exchanges necessitated the introduction of 4 weekly injections of Rituximab beginning on day 40, which was successful. Indeed, since the second injection of Rituximab on day 51, the number of platelets stabilized at a normal level, thereby allowing for the complete cessation of plasma exchange. At this writing — day 89 — the patient remains in persistent remission. Conclusion Given the different therapeutic and prognostic implications of the 2 types of TTP in child patients, it is mandatory to end at an accurate biological diagnosis: whereas the constitutional form is effectively treated with plasma injections, the acquired form, while initially requiring plasma exchange, often necessitates the use of immunosuppressors during acute or relapse phase. The present study concerns a paediatric case of acquired TTP treated successfully with Rituximab during an acute dependant phase.

Incubated osmotic fragility test does not exclude red blood cell membrane disorders! About a case of hereditary elliptocytosis

We report a case of hereditary elliptocytosis in an infant diagnosed a few months after the birth, in a context of regenerative normocytic normochromic anaemia. The investigations, including incubated osmotic fragility, erythrocytic enzymes study and haemoglobin electrophoresis, were not contributive. Only the persistence of elongated (or cigar-shaped) erythrocytes on blood smears was noted. Hereditary elliptocytosis was confirmed by specialized investigations (rheological study and erythrocytic membrane proteins electrophoresis). Investigations in the mother were realized and led to the discovery of a similar biological pattern. Hereditary elliptocytosis is a red blood cell membrane disorder due to the defect in cytoskeleton proteins (spectrin or 4.1), leading to the loss of deformability properties of erythrocytes. This disorder is considered as rare; however, its incidence is probably underestimated because most cases are pauci- or asymptomatic and the discovery is often fortuitous. The absence of detection of this defect by incubated osmotic fragility should not discard the hypothesis of erythrocytes membrane disorders. The persistent observation of elongated erythrocytes on blood smear must encourage the biologist to evocate a hereditary elliptocytosis.

Angiotrophic T‐Cell Lymphoma as a Cause of Regenerative Anemia in a Horse

Angiotrophic T‐Cell Lymphoma as a Cause of Regenerative Anemia in a Horse

Effect of Fasciola gigantica infection on adrenal and thyroid glands of riverine buffaloes

Effect of Fasciola gigantica infection on adrenal and thyroid glands was investigated using eight male, yearling Murrah buffaloes. The animals were randomly assigned to two groups of four buffaloes each (Group-A, infected; Group-B, non-infected control). Animals of Group-A were orally infected with 1000 F. gigantica viable metacercariae, keeping other four animals of Group-B as uninfected control. In the infected buffaloes, the clinical signs began appearing from 7th week postinfection (p.i.) and eggs were detected in the faeces between day 93 and 99 (95.5 ± 1.25) postinfection (p.i.). The serum cortisol level, revealed a significant ( P < 0.05) rise during initial stage of the infection, followed by a continuous fall from 12th week onward. Peak cortisol level on 10th week (13.30 ± 2.57 ng ml −1) was associated with eosinophilia (11.0 ± 0.95%). However, non-infected controls maintained almost uniform cortisol levels (3.97 ± 0.15 − 5.88 ± 0.09 ng ml −1) throughout the period of the study. The pathological changes of adrenal glands were correlated with physiological dysfunction of the glands. The levels of T 3 and T 4 were significantly ( P < 0.05 − 0.01) low from 14th week onward and were synchronous with in situ migration, growth and development of F. gigantica. Significant reduction in the thyroid hormones was further supported by histopathological evidence of lymphocytic thyroiditis confirming hypothyroidism. A decrease in Hb, PCV, total erythrocyte counts and appearance of reticulocytes in the blood of the infected buffaloes suggested regenerative anemia, which could partly be due to hypothyroidism.

Histiocytic sarcoma of the spleen in flat-coated retrievers with regenerative anaemia and hypoproteinaemia

Three flat-coated retrievers with a regenerative anaemia were examined. They were hypoproteinaemic suggesting that the anaemia might be due to blood loss, but it was not possible to identify a...

Pathogenesis, laboratory diagnosis, and clinical implications of erythrocyte enzyme deficiencies in dogs, cats, and horses

Deficiencies of enzymes involved in erythrocyte metabolism can have significant effects on erythrocyte function and survival. Animals with pyruvate kinase (PK) or phosphofructokinase (PFK) deficiencies have shortened erythrocyte life spans and regenerative anemia. PK-deficient dogs (but not PK-deficient cats) develop progressive myelofibrosis and osteosclerosis of bone marrow and hemochromatosis and cirrhosis of the liver. PFK-deficient dogs have sporadic episodes of hyperventilation-induced intravascular hemolysis and hemoglobinuria. Cytochrome b5 reductase (Cb5R) deficiency in dogs and cats results in persistent methemoglobinemia and cyanotic mucous membranes. Severe deficiency of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, the rate-controlling enzyme in the pentose phosphate pathway, resulted in anemia with eccentrocytosis in an American saddlebred colt. Horses with erythrocyte flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) deficiency have both eccentrocytosis (attributable to severe deficiency in glutathione reductase activity) and methemoglobinemia (attributable to Cb5R deficiency); the dual enzyme deficiency occurs because FAD is a required cofactor for both enzymes. Erythrocyte enzyme deficiencies do not usually shorten life expectancy, except for PK-deficient dogs and potentially PFK-deficient dogs during a hemolytic crisis. Although enzyme deficiencies are rare causes of anemia and methemoglobinemia, the ability to diagnose deficient animals allows for the possibility of eliminating these undesirable traits in future breeding. DNA-based assays are available for PK and PFK deficiencies; whereas, biochemical tests of enzyme activity are required for other deficiencies. Continued research is needed to document additional enzyme deficiencies that likely occur and to develop additional DNA-based assays to detect heterozygous animals.

Deficiency of SHP-1 Protein-Tyrosine Phosphatase in “Viable Motheaten” Mice Results in Retinal Degeneration

Viable motheaten mutant mice (abbreviated allele symbol me(v)) are deficient in Src-homology 2-domain phosphatase (SHP)-1, a critical negative regulator of signal transduction in hematopoietic cells. These mice exhibit immune dysfunction, hyperproliferation of myeloid cells, and regenerative anemia. This study focused on the role of SHP-1 in retinal homeostasis. Ophthalmoscopy, histology, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), electroretinography (ERG), immunohistochemistry, Western blot, bone marrow transplantation, and genetic crosses were performed for phenotypic characterization and functional studies of retinal degeneration (RD) in me(v)/me(v) mice. Fundus examinations of me(v)/me(v) mice revealed numerous, small white spots. Histologic examination demonstrated photoreceptor loss beginning at 3 weeks of age, and TEM revealed disorganization and reduction in the number of outer segments, as well as the presence of phagocytic cells in the subretinal space. Rod- and cone-mediated ERGs were abnormal. SHP-1 protein was expressed in mouse and human retinal lysates and was localized to the outer nuclear layer of the retina in me(v)/me(v) and control mice. Autoantibodies are not necessary for RD, as B-cell-deficient me(v)/me(v) Igh-6(tm1Cgn) mice had no attenuation of photoreceptor cell loss compared with age-matched me(v)/me(v) mice. Histologic examination of lungs and retinas from normal recipients of me(v)/me(v) marrow revealed the classic acidophilic macrophage pneumonia of me(v)/me(v) mice, but no retinal degeneration. me(v)/me(v) mice exhibit normal retinal development with the onset of RD at 3 weeks of age and a rapidly progressive loss of photoreceptors. These findings support the hypothesis that SHP-1 plays a critical role in retinal homeostasis.

Toxicity and biodistribution of an iodine‐131‐radiolabelled tumour necrosis‐targeting antibody in non‐tumour‐bearing domestic felines

The potential of human immunotherapeutics now revolutionizing modern cancer therapy has yet to make an impact in veterinary medicine, mainly due to the evolutionary differences between human and non-human cell surface antigens which bar the efficacy for many antibodies targeting human antigens. Here, we explore the possible use of an iodine-131 (I-131)-radiolabelled chimericTNT-1/B antibody, Cotara, being tested in humans, which targets a highly conserved structure present in all solid tumours. The goal was to document the possible toxic side-effects, retention, excretion and biodistribution of Cotara in non-tumour-bearing felines. The study was conducted with six lab animal domestic shorthaired felines. Two felines were randomly placed into three dose groups: 1.5, 2.0, and 3.0 mCi kg(-1) (0.68, 0.9 and 1.36 mCi lb(-1)); these doses were administered by a single IV injection. Thyroid blockade with potassium iodide (KI) was administered orally once daily. Over the 90-day study, haematologic test results, serum chemistry, thyroid function, food intake and morbidity were recorded. Drug distribution was ascertained through nuclear scintigraphy. Four of the six subjects had decreased appetite (Grade 1) that started on day 4 and then resolved by day 10. Two subjects exhibited intermittent days of anorexia (Grade 2) from day 5 to day 13. Both subjects with Grade 2 anorexia were sacrificed and necropsied once each exhibited two consecutive days of signs. Vomiting (Grade 2) occurred in 3 subjects from day 4 to day 13. Three subjects had moderate regenerative anaemia (Grade 2), whereas two developed leucocytosis. Overall, a single intravenous dose of Cotara resulted in moderate toxicity, with subjects exhibiting transitory signs of anorexia and vomiting without laboratory evidence of organ pathology. Each subject received a once daily oral dose of KI (33 mg) that was found to be safe and effective in the prevention of radiation damage to the thyroid gland over the study period. With a moderate toxicity profile, Cotara may hold unique promise by delivering I-131 directly into solid tumours of various types in felines.

Piroplasma infection in dogs in northern Spain

Babesiosis is a world-wide zoonosis caused by tick-borne hematozoan parasites of the genus Babesia. Canine Babesidae have historically been classified as “large Babesia” ( Babesia canis) and “small Babesia” ( Babesia gibsoni) based on the size of their intraerythrocytic forms. Genetic sequencing technology using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has allowed further subdivision. B. gibsoni has three strains: “Asia”, “California” and a recently identified small babesial-like parasite, Theileria annae. This newly recognised piroplasm appears to be hyperendemic in northwest Spain. In order to provide some insight into the situation, all the cases diagnosed in our laboratory (NW of Spain) during 2003 were evaluated. Our study (62 samples) shows the existence of a piroplasm morphologically different from B. canis and similar to B. gibsoni, which is genetically related to T. annae. Severe regenerative anemia and thrombocytopenia are almost constant characteristics of infection with T. annae in dogs. In many cases azotemia is found. Abnormally high serum concentrations of urea and creatinin, together with elevated concentrations of inorganic phosphorus, hypoalbuminemia, hypercholesterolemia, proteinuria, high protein/creatinin and presence of hyaline and granular casts in the microscopic examination of urine sediment suggest a glomerular component to the disease. We conclude that observational research and clinical trials should be conducted in order to improve our understanding of this emerging disease in order to provide some insight into the best therapeutic practices.

Primary Hemangiosarcoma of the Humerus in a Maltese Dog

A 14-year-old intact male Maltese dog was presented with a history of pain and swelling of the left upper forelimb and lameness for 3 weeks. Hematological and radiographical examinations showed regenerative anemia and osteolysis of the humerus. Fine needle aspiration biopsy detected epithelioid- and fibroblast-like anaplastic cells with blood components. A hemorrhagic and osteolytic malignant tumor was suspected, and the affected forelimb was amputated. Histopathologically, the dog was diagnosed with primary hemangiosarcoma of the humerus. Thereafter, metastatic lesions appeared in the skin, and the dog was euthanized 1 month after the operation.

Clinicopathological changes and effect of imidocarb therapy in dogs experimentally infected with Babesia canis

In this study one spleen-intact dog (A) and two splenectomised dogs (BSE, CSE) were infected with Babesia canis. All animals developed an acute disease characterised by fever, haemoglobinuria and anaemia, the latter being more severe in the splenectomised dogs. Fever and parasitised red blood cells were detected for three days after imidocarb treatment in the splenectomised animals. Haematological abnormalities included regenerative anaemia, thrombocytopenia and leukopenia (due to neutropenia and lymphopenia) in the acute phase, soon followed by leukocytosis, neutrophilia and left shift a few days later. Acute hepatopathy was detected in all dogs with elevated ALT activity, which was more seriously altered in the splenectomised dogs. Diffuse changes in liver structure and hepatomegaly were seen by ultrasonography. Liver biopsy and histology revealed acute, non-purulent hepatitis in the splenectomised dogs. Both splenectomised dogs were successfully cured after collection of 400 ml highly parasitised blood, proving that large-amount antigen production is possible with rescuing the experimental animals. Whole blood transfusion, imidocarb and supportive care with infusions, antipyretics, glucocorticoids and diuretics were applied. The spleen-intact dog clinically recovered after receiving supportive treatment, with no imidocarb therapy. Microbial infections developed in both splenectomised animals (BSE: haemobartonellosis, CSE: osteomyelitis caused by Escherichia coli), probably as a consequence of immunosuppression after splenectomy and glucocorticoid therapy.

Angiotrophic T-Cell Lymphoma as a Cause of Regenerative Anemia in a Horse

Angiotrophic T-Cell Lymphoma as a Cause of Regenerative Anemia in a Horse

Multiple myeloma in 16 cats: a retrospective study

Background: There is limited published information regarding feline multiple myeloma. Diagnostic criteria are derived from canine studies and to our knowledge, have not been critically reviewed for cats. Objective: To evaluate the clinical and laboratory findings in cats with multiple myeloma and appraise diagnostic criteria. Methods: Retrospective evaluation of medical records was performed. Inclusion required an antemortem diagnosis of multiple myeloma using 2 of 4 criteria: 1) ≥20% plasma cells in the bone marrow, or ≥10% if atypical plasma cells; 2) paraproteinemia; 3) radiographically‐evident osteolysis; 4) light chain proteinuria. Alternatively, a postmortem diagnosis was based on the findings of multiple plasma cell neoplasms, with marrow involvement. Results: Sixteen cats were diagnosed with multiple myeloma between 1996 and 2004, with a median age of 14.0 years; 9 of 16 (56%) were castrated males, and 7 of 16 (44%) were spayed females. Laboratory abnormalities included hyperglobulinemia (14/16, 87.5%), with 11/14 (78.5%) monoclonal and 3/14 (21.4%) biclonal gammopathies; hypoalbuminemia (4/16, 25%); light chain proteinuria, (4/9, 44.4%); hypocholesterolemia (11/16, 68.7%); hypercalcemia, (3/15, 20%); nonregenerative anemia, (11/16, 68.7%); regenerative anemia, (1/16, 6.2%); neutropenia (5/15, 33.3%); thrombocytopenia (8/16, 50%); and marrow plasmacytosis (14/15, 93.3%). Plasma cells were markedly immature, atypical, or both in 10 of 12 (83.3%) cats. Focal or multifocal osteolysis was noted in 6 of 12 (50%) cats for which radiographs were available for review; generalized osteopenia was found in 1 (8.3%) cat. Noncutaneous, extramedullary tumors were found in all cats assessed, 7/7 (100%), including spleen (6), liver (3), and lymph nodes (4). The disease in 1 of 2 cats with cutaneous tumors progressed to plasmacytic leukemia. Conclusions: Common findings in feline multiple myeloma include atypical plasma cell morphology, hypocholesterolemia, anemia, bone lesions, and multi‐organ involvement. Based on the results of this study, we advocate modifying diagnostic criteria in cats to include consideration of plasma cell morphology and visceral organ infiltration.

Hemorrhagic disease in dogs infected with an unclassified intraendothelial piroplasm in southern Brazil

A hemorrhagic disease affecting dogs in Brazil, referred to popularly as “nambiuvú” (bloody ears) and believed to be transmitted by ticks, has been observed in animals infected with an organism described originally in 1910 as a piroplasm, and known locally as Rangelia vitalli. In this series of 10 cases, the disease was characterized by anaemia, jaundice, fever, spleno- and lymphadenomegaly, hemorrhage in the gastrointestinal tract, and persistent bleeding from the nose, oral cavity and tips, margins and outer surface of the pinnae. The ixodid ticks Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Amblyomma aureolatum infested affected dogs from suburban and rural areas, respectively. Laboratory findings included regenerative anaemia, spherocytosis, icteric plasma and bilirubinuria. Those intracellular organisms were found in bone marrow smears but not in blood smears. Microscopically, zoites were seen within the cytoplasm of blood capillary endothelial cells. Parasitized and non-parasitized endothelial cells were positive immunohistochemically for von Willebrand factor (vWF). Langhans-type multinucleate giant cells were observed in the lymph nodes and choroid plexus. There was prominent erythrophagocytosis by macrophages in the lymph node sinuses and infiltration of the medullary cords by numerous plasma cells. Ultrastructurally, this organism had an apical complex that included a polar ring and rhoptries but no conoid. This parasite was contained within a parasitophorous vacuole that had a trilaminar membrane with villar protrusions and was situated in the cytoplasm of capillary endothelial cells. This organism tested positive by immunohistochemistry for Babesia microti. This pathogen was also positive by in situ hybridization for B. microti. Tentative clinical diagnosis in these cases was based on the history, clinical picture, haemogram and favorable response to therapy, and confirmed through microscopic examination of smears from the bone marrow or histological sections of multiple tissues, especially lymph nodes where zoites were most frequently found. The disease was reproduced by intravenous inoculation of blood from a naturally infected dog into an experimental dog. The authors demonstrate in this study that this organism is a protozoa of the phylum Apicomplexa, order Piroplasmorida. This piroplasm seems to be different from Babesia since it has an intraendothelial stage. Molecular phylogenetic analysis is necessary to better characterize this parasite and clarify its taxonomic status.