Diagnostic methods for canine babesiosis

The purpose of the research is to analyze current diagnostic methods for canine babesiosis and differentiate it from other blood-borne diseases. Materials and methods. The study was based on long-term literature data, which was analyzed and summarized, highlighting methods for the intravital diagnosis of canine babesiosis. Results and discussion. Canine babesiosis is a highly prevalent, transmissible hemoprotozoan disease transmitted by ixodid ticks and found worldwide. In dogs, the primary vectors of babesiosis are ticks of the genera Rhipicephalus , Dermatocentor , and Haemaphysalis . Babesiosis is caused by single-celled protozoa of round, oval, pear-shaped, or amoeboid shapes. These organisms are transmitted by tick bites. They parasitize within red blood cells (a single red blood cell can contain from 1 to 32 individuals), blood plasma, neutrophils, and can also be found in parenchymal organs. The most common complications include hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, renal and hepatic failure, and exacerbation of chronic diseases. The disease can be acute, chronic, or subclinical. The incubation period ranges from 3 to 21 days. With the subclinical form, periodic exacerbations are possible. Symptoms may depend on the severity of the disease. The most common symptoms in the acute stage include fever, lethargy, pale or icteric mucous membranes, dark urine, and anorexia. Blood tests reveal splenomegaly and hepatomegaly, and anemia, thrombocytopenia, and monocytosis are noted. Blood smear microscopy, PCR testing, and ELISA diagnostics are used to confirm the disease.