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American canine hepatozoonosis
1United States Army Veterinary Corps, 10015 Theote Road, Building 610, Fort Belvoir, VA 22060-5400, USA. nvincent@LN.amedd.army.mil
The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Small Animal Practice
|August 13, 2003
Summary
Hepatozoon americanum, a severe tickborne illness in dogs, differs significantly from Hepatozoon canis. Early diagnosis and treatment of this Gulf Coast tick-transmitted disease improve long-term survival rates.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Parasitology
- Tickborne Diseases
Background:
- Hepatozoon americanum causes a severe form of canine hepatozoonosis in the southern US, distinct from Hepatozoon canis found globally.
- Transmission occurs via ingestion of the Gulf Coast tick (Amblyomma maculatum).
- Clinical signs include waxing and waning lameness, fever, and ocular discharge, with characteristic periosteal proliferation on radiographs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the emerging disease Hepatozoon americanum in dogs.
- To differentiate it from Hepatozoon canis.
- To outline diagnostic methods and complications.
Main Methods:
- Diagnosis relies on blood smear examination for gamonts, muscle biopsy for cysts/meronts, or serological antibody detection.
- Laboratory findings often include extreme leukocytosis and elevated alkaline phosphatase.
- Radiographic evidence of periosteal proliferation is common.
Main Results:
- Hepatozoon americanum infection presents with severe clinical signs and distinct pathological findings compared to H. canis.
- Common complications include glomerulopathies, amyloidosis, and vasculitis.
- Recent treatment advances have improved long-term survival.
Conclusions:
- Hepatozoon americanum is an emerging and severe tickborne disease in dogs.
- Accurate diagnosis and management are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
- Ongoing research and treatment advancements offer a more optimistic prognosis.