First report of canine infection with Hepatozoon spp. In the republic of FIJI islands

Abstract

This communication is going to be the first report of canine Hepatozoon spp case in FIJI islands. And this report describes a 12 months old female intact mixed breed puppy presented to with lethargic for 4-5 days and depression. General clinical examination revealed moderate dehydration and hyperthermia (40 oC). Laboratory analysis of blood revealed thrombocytopenia and low serum albumin with normal other parameters. Serology test (4dx) negative for Dirofilaria immitis, Lyme disease, Echrlichia.canis and Anaplasma spp. Diff quick staining of blood smear specimen demonstrated the presence of ellipsoidal shaped well demarcated structure within a small number of neutrophils. The clinical signs and condition of this patient improved after supportive and symptomatic treatment with doxycycline. There are not any facilities available for molecular diagnostic in this country. To my knowledge this is the first report of canine Hepatozoon spp infection in FIJI islands.