A Study of Naturally Acquired Canine Babesiosis Caused by Single and MixedBabesiaSpecies in Zambia: Clinicopathological Findings and Case Management

• DOI: 10.1155/2015/985015
• Publication Date: 2015-11-22T21:01:47Z
• Authors: King Shimumbo Nal...; Ntombi Basimbi Mu...; Mwaka Mwangala Na...; Chilufya Susan Mu...; Eugene Chisela Bw...; Ethel M’kandawire; Ngonda Saasa; Careen Hankanga; Elizabeth Oparaocha; Martin Simuunza
• Keywords: Lethargy; Pallor; Anorexia

A retrospective and prospective analysis of clinical records dogs diagnosed with Babesia infections was carried out for the years 2000 to 2013 from practices in Lusaka, Zambia. Records 363 confirmed were analysed using demographic factors including sex, breed, age, signs relation haematological findings species. The laboratory observed are described as well species identification. study included 18 breeds highest proportion mongrels (32.2%), males representing 64.5% population. most common presenting problems anorexia (65.3%) lethargy/weakness (65.3%). fever (87.3%), pallor (52.3%), lymphadenopathy (47.4%), presence ticks (44.9%). Anaemia (96.4%) nucleated erythrocytes (42.2%) findings. mixed infection rossi gibsoni present 59.7% dogs, whilst 8% 32.2% had B. a single infection, respectively. Case management mainly involved therapy tetracyclines imidocarb usually accompanied by improvement. This highlights, first time, natural dog populations Zambia, where previously only reported.