Canine babesiosis is a protozoal disease of worldwide distribution and now occurrence can be found in India, China, and other countries. The infectious organisms belong to the genus Babesia. Babesia spp are intraerythrocytic parasites that are frequently, but not always, transmitted by ticks. They are morphologically grouped as large or small forms. B canis, with several subspecies, is the most common large form and is generally transmitted by the tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Direct transmission between dogs or transplacental transmission is common for B gibsoni, a small form. Babesiosis is characterized by hemolytic anemia, fever, and splenomegaly. However, the biology, virulence, and pathophysiology of each species can vary considerably. Infection may manifest as an acute, severe illness or remain chronic and undetected. Host factors also play a role, especially age and immunologic response. Resulting hemolytic anemia is attributed both to increased fragility and hemolysis of erythrocytes and to immune-mediated destruction, because hosts may develop antierythrocyte antibodies during infection. Diagnosis can be made with microscopic identification, serologic testing, and nucleic acid-based detection methods (often PCR). All can have false-positive or false-negative results. Drugs that are effective vary with Babesia spp. Other treatments may be blood transfusions, IV fluids, and supportive care. Avoiding tick exposure, inspecting for ticks, and use of tick preventives can be helpful.
Links to sections in the MVM:
Babesiosis
Hemolytic Anemia
References
Kidd L, Qurollo B, Lappin M, Richter K, et al. Prevalence of vector-borne pathogens in southern California dogs with clinical and laboratory abnormalities consistent with immune-mediated disease. J Vet Intern Med. 2017 Jul;31(4):1081-1090. doi: 10.1111/jvim.14735
Huber D, Beck A, Anzulović Ž, et al. Microscopic and molecular analysis of Babesia canis in archived and diagnostic specimens reveal the impact of anti-parasitic treatment and postmortem changes on pathogen detection. Parasit Vectors. 2017 Oct 18;10(1):495. doi: 10.1186/s13071-017-2412-1.
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